Tourism and Hospitality Generates $409.4 Million in Economic Impact for Muskegon County in 2024
Muskegon, MI – Visit Muskegon, the countywide destination marketing organization (DMO) for Muskegon County, announced today that tourism generated $409.4 million in economic impact for the county in 2024, according to a newly released report by Travel Michigan, a division of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), and Tourism Economics, an international tourism research firm.
The annual study shows a 5.4% increase in visitor spending compared to 2023, when tourism accounted for $388.3 million in spending across the county. These dollars flowed through Muskegon’s economy in lodging, restaurants, retail, attractions, transportation, and related sectors, further reinforcing tourism’s role as a vital driver of local economic growth.
Key Findings for Muskegon County in 2024:
- Total Visitor Spending: $409.4 million
- State & Local Tax Revenue Generated: $49.2 million
- Tourism-Supported Jobs: 4,993 total jobs (3,290 direct jobs)
- Tourism-Supported Labor Income: $234.2 million (total)
- Top Spending Sectors:
- Transportation: $174.6 million
- Food & Beverage: $108.3 million
- Recreation: $49.7 million
- Lodging: $31.5 million
- Retail: $45.3 million
“This report confirms what we see every day: tourism is a powerful economic driver for Muskegon County,” said Bob Lukens, Director of Visit Muskegon. “Visitors are not only enjoying our incredible beaches, cultural attractions, and events, but they are also supporting local businesses, creating jobs, and generating tax revenue that benefits every resident.”
The study found that tourism in Muskegon County supported nearly 6% of all local jobs in 2024, demonstrating the industry’s role in creating employment opportunities and sustaining businesses throughout the community
Statewide Impact
Across Michigan, tourism contributed $54.8 billion in total economic impact in 2024, driven by 131.2 million visitors and $30.7 billion in direct visitor spending. The statewide tourism industry supported more than 350,000 jobs, accounting for one in every 17 jobs in Michigan
“The continued growth of tourism spending in Muskegon County demonstrates that our community is becoming a premier Lake Michigan shoreline destination,” Lukens added. “From our vibrant downtown and thriving arts scene to our unmatched access to the water, we have so much to offer both visitors and residents.”