Massive Surge in Tourism: Over 50 Billion Dollars Spent at the Jersey Shore in 2024, Breaking Previous Records
New Jersey Shatters Tourism Records in 2024
A tourism boom swept through New Jersey in 2024, with record-breaking numbers of visitors and an unprecedented amount of spending. According to a report released by the state Division of Travel and Tourism, a total of 123.7 million people visited New Jersey last year, marking a 2.7% increase from 2023. The impressive surge in tourism led to a record-setting $50.6 billion in visitor spending across the state, representing a 3.1% increase year-over-year.
Atlantic and Cape May counties emerged as the frontrunners, attracting the highest number of visitors and generating substantial revenue. Atlantic County, home to nine casinos and numerous beach towns, welcomed nearly 24 million visitors, making it the state's most visited destination and accounting for nearly 20% of all visitors to New Jersey. The county saw an increase of 1.8% from 2023.
Cape May County ranked second with 12.11 million visitors, a 4.6% increase compared to the previous year. These figures underscore the significant role of coastal destinations in New Jersey's tourism sector.
The statewide economic impact of tourism reached $80.4 billion in 2024, with an increase in spending by day visitors reaching an all-time high of about $6.92 billion, a notable 8.52% jump from 2023.
Atlantic City, as a major destination within the state, contributes significantly to these figures. While specific 2024 data for Atlantic City is not available, available details highlight its importance. Atlantic City is a major driver of the state's lodging and casino sector, which saw a combined revenue of $13.45 billion in 2024. The city's direct tourism spending, at $2.81 billion, underscores its importance as a significant economic engine for the region.
In the food and beverage, retail, and recreation sectors, all three saw strong growth in 2024. Notably, food and beverage led the way with a 5.2% year-over-year increase to $14.2 billion statewide. While Atlantic City is a hub for these activities, data from Cape May County, for comparison, reported $1.7 billion in food and beverage, $1.52 billion in retail, and $838.1 million in recreation.
In summary, 2024 was a record year for New Jersey's tourism industry, with Atlantic City playing a crucial role as a tourist hotspot and economic driver, particularly within the lodging, casino, and hospitality sectors. The state will continue to monitor these trends as the tourism industry remains a vital component of New Jersey's economy.
Tourists seeking a vibrant lifestyle indulged in travel to New Jersey, contributing to a record-breaking 123.7 million visitor count in 2024. Moreover, the allure of coastal destinations like Atlantic and Cape May Counties attracted a substantial proportion of these visitors, with Atlantic County becoming the state's most visited destination.
