Mississippi welcomed 44.2 million visitors in 2024, and the impact of tourism last year generated an $18.1 billion contribution to the state’s economy. Both numbers broke state records.
Visit Mississippi Director Rochelle Hicks announced the release of the 2024 Tourism Economic Contribution report during the annual Governor’s Conference on Tourism in Vicksburg on Friday. The report was conducted by Tourism Economics, a renowned firm, and showed an uptick in foot traffic in Mississippi. In 2023, Mississippi welcomed 43.7 million visitors, which yielded a $17.5 billion contribution to the state’s economy.
“Tourism is one of Mississippi’s greatest success stories. It continues to be one of Mississippi’s most powerful economic engines, showcasing our unmatched hospitality, culture, and natural beauty to the world,” Governor Tate Reeves said.
“These remarkable numbers are more than statistics — they represent hardworking Mississippians whose livelihoods are strengthened by the travel and tourism industry. They reflect the charm of our communities, the vibrancy of our cultural heritage, and the growing recognition of Mississippi as a premier destination.”
Per the report, the 44.2 million visitors spent $11.9 billion, an increase of 3.2% from the prior year. The top sources of spending included food and beverage, lodging, and recreation, followed by retail. The $18.1 billion economic impact supported 136,094 jobs — or one-in-13 in the state — and provided $4.6 billion in labor income for Mississippians.
Visitor activity generated an estimated $2.2 billion in government revenues in 2024, with state and local taxes alone topping $1.1 billion, allowing for additional investment in education, infrastructure, and public services, according to officials.
“Tourism is more than numbers — it’s about people, places, and pride. When visitors come to Mississippi, they’re not just spending money— they’re investing in our communities,” Hicks said.
“From the local businesses they support to the jobs they help sustain, tourism touches lives across our state. In 2024, 44.2 million visitors helped fuel our economy, strengthened our workforce, and brought new energy to the places we call home. That kind of impact is something every Mississippian can relate to and celebrate.”
While the report didn’t pinpoint specific locations in the state that drew a high volume of tourism, we do know that annual events such as Cruisin’ the Coast, the Mississippi State Fair, Bulldog Bash, the Double-Decker Arts Festival, and the Sanderson Farms Championship have attracted the out-of-state masses. Ole Miss football, in 2024, had a $325 million economic impact due to record numbers of people visiting Oxford and attending home games.
