Economic Impact of Tourism
Transforming Osceola County Through Tourism
Discover the Impact of Experience Kissimmee's Efforts
At Experience Kissimmee, we celebrate adventures and joy that define Osceola County's unique spirit. Our commitment to impactful tourism marketing campaigns not only delights our more than 10 million visitors but also enriches the lives of our residents and neighbors. With hospitality and tourism careers in our area yielding $8,000 more than the national average, it's clear that opportunity flourishes here.
Our positive impact on the tourism economy provides significant relief to local residents. Homeowners save approximately $4,700 on taxes annually, of which a percentage is from Experience Kissimmee’s direct efforts. Every dollar of Tourist Development Tax funds delegated to Experience Kissimmee generates $43 in economic impact, reinforcing over 6,000 jobs, contributing to half of the county's sales tax revenue, and empowering our partners with over $1 billion in direct visitor spending.
Learn more about how the economic impact of tourism is fostering a brighter, more prosperous future for Osceola County, its businesses, and its residents.
Supporting Local Businesses
Annually, more than $1 billion in direct visitor spending in local businesses resulted from Experience Kissimmee's sales and marketing efforts.
(Source: Impactulator)
Boosting Household Tax Savings
Homeowners save approximately $4,700 on taxes annually, of which a percentage is from Experience Kissimmee’s direct efforts. Learn how Experience Kissimmee works with the Travel Trade Industry around the globe.
(Source: Impactulator & Tourism Economics)
Rich in Career Opportunities
Leading the way with 269K jobs, the Central Florida tourism sector exceeds the national average, and 38.9K of those jobs are based in Osceola County. Our Community Grants help bolster job growth in the county. Discover opportunities right in your backyard and explore the diverse attractions and experiences Central Florida has to offer.
(Source: CareerSource Central Florida, Lightcast, Tourism Economics)
Enriching Community Heritage
In addition to our contractual obligations, nearly $5.3 million of additional funding has been paid to community non-profits in the last two years to advance cultural and historical experiences. Check out our Community Grants.
Community Impact at a Glance
The Impact of Travel to Central Florida
When people visit Orange, Osceola and Seminole Counties, our entire community benefits. Tourism saves each household $4,700 in annual taxes annually.
Supports
450,000 Jobs
43% of the workforce
Generates
$87.6 Billion
In economic impact
Pays
$26.1 Billion
In compensation
Provides
$6.2 Billion
In local & state tax revenue
Tourism's Economic Impact
Experience Kissimmee Highlights Tourism's $10 Billion Economic Impact
Experience Kissimmee released new research data by Tourism Economics on the impact of tourism on Osceola County.
Tourism with a Purpose
Strengthening cultural and historical experiences
This year, more than 5.3 million additional dollars were distributed to seven local nonprofit organizations to further strengthen cultural and historical experiences within the destination.
Local Voices
"Tourism is the seed that bears fruit for all other industries in Osceola County. People can build a lifelong career making our community a great place to live, work, and play."
Peggy Choudhry
Osceola County Commissioner
"The contributions to Osceola Arts reflect commitment to enriching cultural opportunities for Osceola County residents and visitors. Through education and events, we can continue to share our passion for the arts as a vital part of our community. "
Brandon Arrington
Executive Director of Osceola Arts
"Experience Kissimmee goes above and beyond, offering us fantastic support not just through their staff but through their monthly training sessions. Our partnership has been incredibly impactful for our cafe. "
Susana Martinez
Owner of Susana’s Cafe
"Working with Experience Kissimmee has been a game-changer for us. It's helped us network and really promote our diner. Since we became partners, our customer base has expanded, with people coming from all over the world to eat here."
Adrian Perez
Owner of Downtown Diner Celebration
"1881 Restaurant and Bar is proud to collaborate with Experience Kissimmee, welcoming guests from around the globe to savor dishes that celebrate and support our local farms and ranches."
Ray Parsons
Owner of 1881 Bar and Restaurant