RUTHERFORD COUNTY, TN – Tourism in Rutherford County delivered a significant boost in 2024, generating more than $787.6 million in visitor spending, a 1.91% increase over 2023, according to data released by Tourism Economics and the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. This latest news from the Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce. 

The spending produced $46.7 million in state tax revenue and $30.5 million in local tax revenue. Without these contributions, each household in Rutherford County would have paid an additional $614 in state and local taxes. With these results, Rutherford County ranked 7th among Tennessee’s 95 counties for visitor spending.

The new report highlights the importance of tourism in easing financial burdens on residents while strengthening local economies. The investment in travel, events, and attractions also supports public services and provides new opportunities for growth.

Statewide, Tennessee set records for the fourth consecutive year, welcoming 147 million visitors and producing $31.66 billion in direct spending. The state also saw a 12% increase in international travel spending in 2024, marking Tennessee as one of the fastest-growing tourism markets in the nation.

Future opportunities for Tennessee tourism include expanded airline routes into Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, Chattanooga, and other major cities, along with cultural milestones such as the Grand Ole Opry’s 100th anniversary, Dollywood’s 40th anniversary, and B.B. King’s 100th birthday celebration in Memphis. These events, paired with enhanced global marketing, are expected to strengthen both statewide and county-level results in years to come.