Experience Kissimmee is highlighting the continued economic and community impact of tourism in Osceola County through its ‘Value of Tourism’ initiative.
Tourism remains a driving force in Central Florida, generating economic opportunity and strengthening the community. Experience Kissimmee’s mission is to create lasting economic benefits by increasing visitation to the destination, ensuring that when visitors come to Central Florida, the entire community thrives.
DT Minich, President and CEO of Experience Kissimmee, said, “At Experience Kissimmee, we’re proud to champion an industry that fuels so much of what makes Osceola County thrive. Tourism is far more than a getaway for visitors, it’s a vital economic force that supports our workforce, uplifts local businesses and enhances quality of life for our residents.”
The organisation stated that tourism workers in Central Florida earn approximately US$7,000 more annually compared to national tourism industry averages, based on 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data.
Experience Kissimmee also reported that nearly US$800 million in direct visitor spending was generated for local businesses through its sales and marketing efforts during the 2023–2024 fiscal year.
In addition, more than US$4.7 million has been invested in local non-profit organisations over the past two fiscal years to support cultural and historical experiences within the community.
According to the organisation, every US$1 invested in Experience Kissimmee through the Tourism Development Tax generates approximately US$22 in economic impact for the local community.
Tourism spending currently contributes more than 35 percent of Osceola County’s total sales tax revenue.
The organisation also released broader tourism economic impact figures for 2024, highlighting tourism’s role in supporting local employment, tax generation and economic activity.
According to the report, Osceola County recorded approximately US$7 billion in visitor spending during 2024, averaging US$19.3 million per day.
Tourism activity supported around 40,700 jobs, accounting for 35.3 percent of the county’s workforce, while generating a total economic impact of US$10.6 billion.
The sector also contributed approximately US$2.3 billion in wages and compensation along with US$685.3 million in state and local tax revenue.
Experience Kissimmee stated that tourism-generated revenue offsets an estimated US$4,500 in local and state taxes for each household in Osceola County.
Tourism-related revenues help support essential public services and community infrastructure, including schools, arts and culture initiatives, public safety and infrastructure development.
Experience Kissimmee said it remains committed to fostering a vibrant and resilient destination where tourism continues to create opportunity, prosperity, and shared success across the community.
