Tourism spending rises by nearly 6% in Oceana County

October 10, 2024

HART — The Silver Lake Sand Dunes-Hart Visitors Bureau announced Thursday, Oct. 10, that 2023 visitor spending increased in Oceana County by nearly 6 percent. 

According to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) Tourism Economic Impact  Report, $160.8 million dollars were spent in the county during 2023, which is up 5.9 percent over 2022. 

Visitor spending accounted for $19 million in state and local tax revenue during 2023, states a press release from the bureau. Additionally, the  tourism industry is responsible for providing 1,547 direct and 2,242 indirectly related industry jobs in the county, generating $49.6 million in tourism-supported labor income. 

The annual MEDC Tourism Impact Report tracks spending over several categories, all which serve  sectors of visitor services: 

  • Lodging: $45.4 million 
  • Food and beverage: $34.5 million 
  • Retail: $19.9 million 
  • Recreation: $24.4 million 
  • Transportation: $36.5 million 

Statewide, visitor spending topped $29 billion in 2023, due in part to a $16.9 million media investment made by the Pure Michigan campaign welcoming visitors to experience the state’s unique destinations, like Silver Lake Sand Dunes. 

“Tourism continues to be a top contributor to the economic wellbeing of Oceana County. We are  encouraged to be in our fourth consecutive year of positive growth in the tourism economy,” said Executive Director of the Silver Lake Sand Dunes-Hart Visitor Bureau Scott Beal. “This continued growth is a testament to the value of our tourism industry in supporting local businesses, households, and the  future of Oceana County.” 

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