Rhode Island welcomed 29.4 million visitors in 2024, marking a 3.7% increase over the previous year and representing a new record for the state, according to data released Wednesday by Governor Dan McKee and Rhode Island Commerce.
The visitors spent $6 billion throughout the state, a 7% increase from 2023, according to research conducted by Tourism Economics, an Oxford Economics company.
The tourism industry supported 88,509 jobs in Rhode Island in 2024, representing 13% of all employment in the state and reflecting a 2.1% increase over the prior year. The sector generated $992 million in state and local tax revenue, up 5.8% from 2023.
“Through our unprecedented and strategic investments in destination marketing, we’re showcasing our state’s unique appeal,” McKee said in a statement. “Rhode Island is truly ‘All That’—and the world is taking notice.”
The broader traveler economy, which includes all traveler-related expenditures beyond direct visitor spending, generated $8.8 billion in total economic impact during 2024.
Food and beverage establishments captured the largest share of visitor spending at $1.5 billion, or 26% of total visitor expenditures. Lodging accounted for $1.3 billion, representing 22% of visitor spending.
The food and beverage sector employed 31,089 people in tourism-related jobs in 2024, according to the report.
Air transportation spending led growth among spending categories, increasing 11.1% year-over-year.
Regional data showed Warwick led spending growth at 10.9% compared to the previous year.
According to the report, each Rhode Island household would need to be taxed an additional $2,230 to replace the visitor-generated tax revenues received by state and local governments in 2024.
“Tourism supports our local businesses, creates new jobs, and helps attract investments to our communities,” said Secretary of Commerce Stefan Pryor in a statement.
The economic impact analysis was conducted by Tourism Economics, which provides research services to more than 500 companies, associations, and destinations annually. The firm is part of Oxford Economics, a global advisory firm that provides forecasts and analytical tools on 200 countries, 100 industrial sectors, and over 3,000 cities.
The full report is available at visitrhodeisland.com/industry.