Tourism report reflects successful local investments

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Oklahoma City‘s visitor economy has reached new heights. A new study from Tourism Economics, released by Visit Oklahoma City, using the most recently available data from 2024, found that the city welcomed 24.5 million visitors who generated $2.8 billion in direct spending, up over the previous year’s tourism spending.

Once ripple effects across industries such as banking, real estate, and business services are factored in, the total economic impact rose to an impressive $4.6 billion, again up from the previous year. It is clear that OKC is on an upward trajectory, with more exciting developments and events slated for the coming years. The coming OKC arena, which will bring higher-profile performance artists, and the 2028 Olympic events, in combination with smart economic policies like our recently increased hotel tax, are all fostering a bright future for our city.

Tourism is now responsible for supporting more than 35,000 local jobs and producing substantial state and local tax revenues. Data from this report confirms what residents and business leaders have long observed: tourism is more than a revenue stream for Oklahoma City; it is an engine for growth and a catalyst for national and international recognition.

This moment should encourage us to double down on forward-thinking strategies. Every dollar invested in tourism infrastructure multiplies its return through job creation, small business growth, and enhanced quality of life. Initiatives like the aforementioned hotel tax increase, the upcoming October 14th G.O. bond election, and the continuation of social safety net MAPS 4 projects all build on one another to make OKC great. By continuing to plan boldly and invest wisely, Oklahoma City can secure its place as a top-tier destination while ensuring lasting prosperity for residents.

From global sporting events to ambitious development projects, the city is steadily raising its profile as a dynamic, welcoming place to visit, live, and invest. With one in every twenty local jobs tied to the visitor economy, tourism’s impact touches nearly every corner of Oklahoma City’s future, positioning it as a true contender among America’s most attractive urban centers.

We are watching the city’s transformation into one of the nation’s most vibrant and up-and-coming destinations. The growth and development OKC has enjoyed, which brought us to these fantastic tourism numbers, all came out of strategic decision-making. Attracting large-scale employers, building arenas to host major arts, sports and conference events, and incentivizing smart growth will continue to help our visitor economy blossom.

Kenton Tsoodle is the president of The Alliance for Economic Development of Oklahoma City.