Scott Fife, left, and Wendy Fife look at artwork at the Hartman Rock Garden on Thursday, April 10, 2025. Tourism generated $539 million in total economic impact in Clark County, as well as nearly 4,700 local jobs, in 2025, according to a study by Tourism Economics, a division of Oxford Economics. FILE
FILE
Tourism generated $539 million in total economic impact in Clark County, as well as nearly 4,700 local jobs, in 2025, according to a study by Tourism Economics, a division of Oxford Economics.“These numbers reinforce what we have long known: tourism is not just about welcoming visitors — it is about building a stronger, more resilient local economy,” said Chris Schutte, vice president of destination marketing and communications for the Greater Springfield Partnership (GSP). “When visitors explore our attractions, stay in our hotels, and dine in our restaurants, they are directly investing in the livelihoods of our neighbors and the vibrancy of our community.” AES Ohio customers to see refunds in their upcoming electric billsDirect visitor spending added up to $330 million last year, which produced $136 million in labor income across the community and supported 4,696 total jobs, from hospitality and retail to transportation and professional services, according to GSP.Tourism-generated tax revenues were $69.2 million in 2025, including $34.4 million in state and local taxes and $14.7 million in local taxes alone. That revenue provided an estimated $614 in tax burden relief for every household in the county, according to GSP.“From our museums and events to our historic downtown and outdoor trail systems, Springfield and Clark County continue to attract visitors who spend, stay, and support local businesses,” Schutte said. “We are proud of the role our tourism industry plays in creating jobs, generating tax revenue, and enhancing quality of life for residents.” Best of Springfield 2026: Vote here for your favoritesIn 2024, the area saw a $560 million economic impact, a $100 million increase since 2021, which reflected a 22% increase in 2022 and an additional 4.2% increase in 2023.In 2023, the direct visitor spending of $341.6 million generated a total economic impact of $561.8 million. Tourism provided 4,639 local jobs and sustained 7.5% of private employment, resulting in a labor income of $130.6 million. That year’s tax revenues generated $70.5 million, including $15.6 million in local tax revenues, translating to $641 in tax burden relief per household.
Christopher Schutte
FILE
The Tourism Economic study is known as the gold standard for destination impact analysis and is used by tourism organizations in the U.S. and internationally.Through its Visit Greater Springfield initiative, the GSP works to attract visitors by promoting attractions, events and offerings to travelers.For more information, visit www.VisitGreaterSpringfield.com.