In a remarkable rebound, the United States welcomed an impressive 66.5 million international visitors in 2023, a 31% increase from the previous year. This surge brings the nation tantalizingly close to pre-pandemic levels, reaching 84% of the 79.4 million arrivals recorded in 2019. The National Travel and Tourism Office (NTTO) anticipates this upward trajectory will continue, projecting that visitor numbers will exceed the peak pre-pandemic figures by 2025, with an expected 85.2 million international arrivals.
2023 proved to be a landmark year for several U.S. states and territories. Puerto Rico led with an astonishing 85% increase in overseas visitors compared to 2019, followed by notable rises in Tennessee (15%), Texas (7%), and Georgia (5%). These figures underscore the diverse appeal of the U.S. as a global destination.
New York City reclaimed its title as the most visited city by international tourists, surpassing other popular destinations like Miami and Los Angeles. This shift underscores New York’s enduring allure to global travellers, further cemented by its rise from second position in 2022.
The economic impact of this influx is substantial, with international travel expenditures totalling $213.1 billion in 2023, a 29% increase from $165.5 billion in 2022. These travel exports now account for 7.0% of all U.S. exports of goods and services, supporting approximately 1.6 million American jobs. This contribution clearly indicates the vital role that international tourism plays in the U.S. economy.
Conversely, American travel abroad also saw significant growth. U.S. citizens spent $215.4 billion internationally, a 33% increase from the previous year, leading to a slight travel trade deficit of $2.3 billion.
The resilience of the travel sector is a testament to its robust recovery and the ongoing appeal of the United States as a premier global destination. As international travel norms continue to stabilize, the U.S. is poised to recover and set new benchmarks in attracting global visitors.
The NTTO’s detailed reports and forecasts are essential for stakeholders in the travel and tourism sectors. They provide insights that help shape strategies to harness the full potential of upcoming travel trends.
In conclusion, as the United States gears up for another record-breaking year, the world watches anxiously, ready to see how far the rebound can go. With a landscape as diverse as its visitor demographics, the U.S. is prepared to welcome the world again.
Written by: Jason Smith