- Economic Powerhouse: The travel industry is a vital engine for the U.S. economy, contributing $2.9 trillion to the GDP and supporting nearly one in ten jobs.
- Strong Domestic Market: Domestic travel remains a stable and powerful force, with projected spending expected to reach $1.2 trillion in 2025.
- Opportunity for Innovation: A temporary decline in international visitors highlights the opportunity to modernize travel infrastructure and streamline visa and entry processes.
- Bright Future in 2026: A significant rebound in international tourism is expected in 2026, driven by major events like the FIFA World Cup and America 250 celebrations.
The latest forecast from the U.S. Travel Association highlights the immense strength and potential of the American travel economy, presenting a clear path toward a decade of extraordinary growth. Travel stands as a dynamic pillar of the nation’s economy, contributing an impressive $2.9 trillion to the GDP and supporting nearly one in every ten American jobs. The report underscores the resilience of the domestic travel market, which continues to hold steady with travelers projected to spend $1.2 trillion in 2025, fueling communities and businesses across the country. Overall, total U.S. travel spending is on a positive trajectory, expected to grow to $1.35 trillion in 2025 and reach nearly $1.5 trillion by 2029.
While the forecast notes a temporary dip in international visitors for 2025, this is viewed as a significant opportunity for innovation and improvement. The situation presents a call to action to modernize travel infrastructure, streamline entry processes, and reinforce the message that America is open and welcoming to global visitors. Looking ahead, the future is incredibly bright. A strong rebound in international arrivals is anticipated for 2026, thanks to major upcoming events like the FIFA World Cup and the America 250 celebrations. By taking decisive steps now, the U.S. is positioning itself to lead the way in global tourism, ensuring a prosperous future for the industry and the nation.