Tourism Economy Creates Long-Term Impact, Opportunities

Source: South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism; Perry Baker

When a state is rich in natural beauty, from the rolling foothills of the Appalachian Mountains to scenic sandy beaches, it’s hard to keep many destinations a secret. The word has long been out that South Carolina is a top stop, with its world-class golf courses and reigning destination cities, to name just a few.

To celebrate the economic impact, cultural contributions and career opportunities the tourism industry generates statewide, Governor Henry McMaster joined the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism to designate May 19-25, 2024, as “South Carolina Travel and Tourism Week.” This proclamation aligned with National Travel and Tourism Week, established by Congress in 1983 to “elevate the power of travel.”

Governor Henry McMaster joins state, recreation and tourism leaders to celebrate the designation of May 19-25, 2024, as “South Carolina Travel and Tourism Week.” Source: South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism

One in 10 jobs is attributed to the hospitality industry, totaling more than 200,000 economic opportunities throughout South Carolina. As a whole, tourism is estimated to contribute more than $29 billion in economic impact to the state, with tourism-related tax collections reducing the tax burden per resident by nearly $1,000.

Visitors are also finding that South Carolina isn’t just a great place to visit or vacation; it’s a great place to live. Last month, both Charleston and Greenville made the U.S. News’ annual “25 Best Places to Live in the U.S.” rankings. The recognitions don’t stop there — the same cities cracked the top five of Southern Living’s “15 Friendliest Cities in the South” list. Meanwhile, Beaufort and Spartanburg placed in the top five, respectively, of the leisure magazine’s complementary ranking of the South’s 20 friendliest towns.

From bountiful tourism-related job and career opportunities to communities where people love to live, work and play, it’s no wonder South Carolina saw 1.7% growth in 2023, the highest in the nation. For businesses looking to find their next new home, hear firsthand from local executives about the state’s opportunities for businesses, from launch to legacy.