VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) — Virginia Beach’s tourism industry is making waves, with data showing record visitor spending and a significant economic boost for the city in 2022.
According to the Virginia Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau, the coastal city welcomed 13.6 million visitors who spent a total of $2.4 billion last year — $300 million more than the previous year and $460 million above pre-pandemic levels.
A recent economic impact study by Tourism Economics, a subsidiary of Oxford Economics, reported a total economic impact of $3.7 billion, including both direct and indirect effects. This report goes on to say tourism spending supported 32,704 jobs, comprising 19% of all employment in Virginia Beach, and generated $324 million in state and local tax revenues.
The report detailed how tourists allocated their spending, with food and beverages leading at $1 billion. Lodging followed with $661 million, while retail, transportation and recreational activities accounting for the remainder. Day visitors made up nearly 60% of the market, while overnight visitors stayed an average of four nights, often returning year after year, and 74% of overnight travelers were repeat visitors.
Virginia Beach surged past 2019’s tourism levels. However, the Virginia Beach Restaurant Association said restaurant revenue reportedly went down for summer 2023.
The city anticipates an update on 2023 tourism data Nov. 4, which will reveal whether the growth trend continued. Data will be presented Nov. 7.