Jefferson County tourism sees significant growth

New research from the Iowa Tourism Office reveals that travel-related expenditures in the state of Iowa topped $7.3 billion in 2023, marking a significant 5.1% increase over the previous year. Jefferson County experienced its own share of this success, with visitor spending surging by 14.7%, making it the second-highest increase among all counties in Iowa.

According to the report, visitors to Jefferson County generated $22.78 million in direct spending in 2023, contributing to a total economic impact of $34 million, up from $30 million in 2022. This influx not only boosts the local economy but also supports jobs and business growth across the community.

Tourism is a key economic driver in Iowa, with travel-generated state and local tax receipts totaling $1.1 billion. In addition, the tourism industry supported 70,954 jobs across the state, including many right here in Jefferson County.

"We're incredibly pleased to see such a robust increase in visitor spending," said Terry Baker, Executive Director for Visit Fairfield Iowa. "This growth not only helps sustain local businesses but also enhances the quality of life for our residents by creating jobs, improving infrastructure, and supporting the cultural and recreational assets that make our community unique."

Amy Zeigler, manager of the Iowa Tourism Office, echoed this excitement.

"We’re thrilled by the continued growth in Iowa’s tourism industry,“ she said. ”We look forward to continuing the momentum and seeing more travelers experience all that Iowa offers.”

With this remarkable growth, Jefferson County is poised to continue attracting visitors, from cultural seekers and food lovers to outdoor enthusiasts. The future looks bright as the tourism sector continues to play a vital role in the local economy, supporting businesses and creating memorable experiences for visitors and residents alike.

For more information, and to view the full report, visit traveliowa.com.

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