ATLANTA, GA — Georgia has set a new tourism record for the fourth year in a row, according to Gov. Brian Kemp, who said the state welcomed 175.6 million domestic and international visitors in 2025.
Those travelers spent more than $46 billion on lodging, restaurants, transportation and other purchases, topping the previous record by more than 2%. State officials said the numbers reinforce Georgia’s standing as one of the country’s busiest travel destinations.
Kemp said the state’s natural attractions, welcoming communities and broad mix of destinations continue to draw both leisure travelers and business visitors. He also pointed to the role tourism plays in supporting local businesses and jobs across Georgia.
Georgia holds onto a top spot for domestic overnight visitors
Along with the new record in overall visitation, Kemp announced that Georgia ranked No. 5 in the nation for domestic overnight visitors for the sixth consecutive year. That ranking highlights the state’s appeal to travelers who spend at least one night and contribute more to lodging, dining and transportation sectors.
For Georgia, the consistency matters as much as the headline number. State officials said the continued ranking shows that the state is not just attracting one-time trips, but maintaining steady demand year after year from people traveling within the United States.
That kind of repeat showing can help tourism businesses plan staffing, investments and seasonal offerings with more confidence. It also gives state leaders a sign that Georgia remains competitive with other major travel markets.
More than $84 billion in statewide economic impact
Tourism is now estimated to generate $84.1 billion in economic impact across Georgia, making it one of the state’s largest economic contributors. The figure includes direct spending as well as the ripple effects that travel has on suppliers, service providers and local communities.
The industry’s footprint is also measured in employment. Georgia’s tourism-supported workforce grew to 473,837 direct, indirect and induced jobs, which officials said equals about one in every 15 jobs in the state.
That scale helps explain why tourism announcements often draw attention beyond the travel industry itself. When visitors book rooms, eat in local restaurants and use transportation services, the benefits are spread across a wide range of businesses.
Kemp says visitors help power local jobs and small businesses
Kemp framed the record as a sign that tourism continues to deliver practical benefits for people living in Georgia. He said the figures reflect the work of residents who give visitors a reason to return and help generate revenue statewide.
In his remarks, Kemp said tourism supports small businesses and creates jobs in communities throughout the state, from one end of Georgia to the other. He also linked the numbers to the broader appeal of Georgia as a place where families and employers may want to put down roots.
The governor’s comments underscored a familiar theme in state economic development: tourism is not just about hotels and attractions. It also supports the everyday businesses that serve visitors and locals alike.
State economic leaders point to sustained momentum
Georgia Department of Economic Development Commissioner Pat Wilson said every visitor who spends time and money in the state helps build a stronger future for residents. He described tourism as a powerful economic driver with “real results.”
Wilson said the latest numbers reflect the effort of tourism professionals across Georgia who keep the state competitive and encourage repeat visits. His comments focused on the long-term value of staying a destination that travelers continue to choose.
State leaders have used the year-over-year gains to show that Georgia’s tourism industry is not a one-time success story. Instead, they say, it has become a durable part of the state’s economic identity.
Atlanta’s World Cup buzz adds to expectations for 2026
State officials also pointed to the excitement around Atlanta’s role in the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup as another reason Georgia may keep drawing attention from travelers. The event is expected to bring added energy to the state’s tourism profile.
While the announcement focused on 2025 totals, the World Cup interest suggests Georgia may have another strong year ahead. Large international events often boost hotel demand, restaurant traffic and travel spending in the host city and beyond.
For now, officials are celebrating a fourth straight record and a tourism engine that continues to expand. The latest numbers suggest Georgia remains a major stop for visitors from across the country and around the world.