Charleston Witnesses Strong Tourism Rebound: A Significant Boon for Residents
Charleston, an enchanting South Carolinian city, has bounced back from the COVID-19 pandemic setbacks with a robust return of tourism, contributing significantly to the economic wellbeing of its residents. Last year, Charleston boasted the highest volumes of tourists since pre-pandemic times, according to a revealing study from the College of Charleston.
An Economical Impact on Locals
Contrary to common assumptions, tourism has emerged as a substantial benefactor for Charleston residents. According to Mark Witte, a Professor of Economics at the College of Charleston, this boon takes the form of increased tourist expenditure, decreased commuting congestion, enhanced air travel access, and burgeoning employment opportunities in the hospitality sector.
In 2023, Charleston recorded an impressive $13 billion in tourism funds, marking a $7 billion augment from 2019, as per the study from the College of Charleston. Although the visitor volume increased by a margin of 8% in the same period, it’s not the quantity but the spending of these tourists that is significantly rising, with each adult spending an average of $170 more per visit.
This surging tourist spending resulted in approximately a quarter of business sales last year, a 10% rise from 2020. This rise in income from sales tax directly impacts locals by reducing the tax they pay, making the growing tourism sector a crucial economic ally for residents.
Upscale Tourism Trends and Economic Benefits
Post-pandemic trends reveal an increased demand for upscale hospitality, with Charleston catering to this preference by welcoming numerous boutique hotels. These high-end accommodations, favored by big spenders, feed further funds into the city’s tax base. Charleston’s ability to maintain hotel occupancy rates at 71%, significantly higher than the national average of 66%, indicates that the city is an attractive investment for hotel owners.
Growth Beyond the City’s Core
Tourists are exploring beyond the downtown Charleston peninsula, contributing to the growth of bordering areas like the East Cooper region, Mount Pleasant, and Sullivan’s Island. This geographic expansion of tourist activity is fostering economic development in these regions.
Increased Air Travel Benefits Locals
More tourists are flying into Charleston than ever, reducing road congestion and car-parking demand in the city. The 68.3% surge in passengers at Charleston International Airport since 2020 demonstrates this trend. With improved air travel options, locals, too, gain more access to direct flights, facilitating more outbound travel from Charleston.
Cultural Attractions and Local Enjoyment
Tourist attractions like King Street, world-class dining, museums, and historical sites, though originally designed for tourists, are frequently enjoyed by locals. The International African American Museum, in particular, is drawing significant tourist interest while also serving the local community.
In essence, tourism’s strong resurgence in Charleston is proving not just beneficial for the city’s economy, but also for the everyday life of its residents, contributing to an improved lifestyle and economic betterment in this beloved South Carolinian city.
