The tourism effect and economic impact in Southwest Idaho

TOURISM MATTERS

Stay. Play. Explore.

It’s more than a saying. It’s a mission.

Tourism in and within Southwest Idaho has been well-researched, with a focus on the industry and economic impact. Dean Runyan Associates and Compass—Longwoods International for Visit Idaho concluded all research in 2021.

THE ECONOMICS

Tourism is the state’s third-largest industry behind agriculture and technology. This snapshot shows how Southwest Idaho benefits from those who stay, play, and explore.

TRAVEL SPEND & REVENUE

  • $1.915 billion in direct travel spending
  • $141 million state and local tax receipts generated from travel spending
  • $16.5 million in local tax revenue
  • $124.5 million in state tax receipts

WHAT ARE VISITORS SPENDING ON?

  • $315.5 million on accommodations
  • $496.1 million on food service
  • $299.3 million on local transportation
  • $68.3 million on entertainment
  • $202.5 million in retail
  • $128.9 million on air transportation

 

Dean Runyan Associates, Idaho Economic Impact Report 2021

TOURISM EFFECT

The top reasons visitors choose Southwest Idaho, where their interests lie, and where they come from.

REASONS FOR VISITING

Visitors come to see friends and family, to experience the outdoors, and to tour the region. And here is what they do:

  • • Shop
  • • Go sightseeing
  • • Attend an event or celebration
  • • Hike or backpack
  • • Swim

STAY THE NIGHT

  • • 3.6 nights is the average number of nights spent in SW Idaho
  • • 2.7 people is the average size of a group traveling together (who stay overnight)

WHERE DO THEY COME FROM?

  1. 1. Boise, Idaho
  2. 2. Salt Lake City, Utah
  3. 3. Spokane, Washington
  4. 4. Portland, Oregon
  5. 5. Twin Falls, Idaho
  6. 6. Los Angeles, California
  7. 7. Seattle, Washington
  8. 8. Idaho Falls/Pocatello, Idaho

 

Compass – Longwoods International, Travel USA Visitor Profile, 2021 Edition

Boise
McCall