Trenton, N.J. – Dec. 6, 2021 – Key economic report numbers indicate that the New Jersey Tourism industry enjoyed a strong bounce-back summer at the Jersey Shore and beyond in 2021, as towns and businesses continued a steady pandemic recovery.
A New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism (NJTT) study, compiled by research leader Tourism Economics, revealed record increases in key metrics, including a nearly 71% rise in bed tax revenues, accompanied by growth from beach tag sales, hotel rooms sold and total room revenue. The report focused specifically on the shore counties of Atlantic, Cape May, Monmouth and Ocean from June 1 to August 31.
“We are thrilled that travelers once again flocked to our state this summer, and we were able to provide a much-needed getaway,” said New Jersey Secretary of State Tahesha Way. “The increase in these important figures indicates how vital tourism is to the overall economy in our state.”
According to NJTT Executive Director Jeff Vasser, the industry’s success this past summer is a testament to the local businesses and talented individuals who make up the industry.
“This summer’s favorable outcome is truly a tribute to the hard work and resilience of our incredible tourism business owners and work force, as well as the quality of our product. Whether visitors were looking for a relaxing weekend on one of our beautiful beaches, or a high-energy escape in our casinos, New Jersey offered something for everyone,” said Vasser.
Key findings from the 2021 Summer Tourism Performance Report include:
- Shore counties experienced significant growth in state bed tax revenue during summer 2021, hitting record levels. Bed taxes collected by the state for the shore counties are projected to reach $19.2 million in 2021 – an increase of 71% and 22% relative to 2020 and 2019, respectively. This is especially significant as 2019 pre-pandemic was already a record-setting year.
- The Shore region was not alone in seeing bed tax gains year-over-year. In fact, all 21 of the state’s counties saw significant increases over 2020 with Hudson County growing more than 150%.
- Nearly half of the state’s counties saw bed tax increases over 2019 numbers with Sussex County growing nearly 60%.
- For the entire state, the New Jersey hotel industry rebounded in the summer of 2021 (June-August). Rooms sold in 2021 increased by 44.6% versus 2020, while the average daily room rate grew 20.2%. These trends contributed to a 74.8% rise in revenue statewide.
- Summer beach tag revenues exceeded pre-pandemic levels in shore counties in 2021, indicating much better performance at the shore. In 2021, for example, Cape May reported a 35% increase in beach tag revenue versus 2019.
“New Jersey’s beaches, lakes, and towns all offer so much for travelers to enjoy,” said Gov. Phil Murphy. “This summer proved once again that we are ‘Jersey Strong’ and ‘Jersey Proud’ and we look forward to welcoming even more visitors in 2022 and expect another great year.”
For more information on tourism in New Jersey, visit www.visitnj.org.
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About New Jersey
New Jersey offers a wide variety of experiences to visitors all year long. Tourists and residents can enjoy outdoor adventures, renowned culinary offerings, educational opportunities, and a strong arts and cultural scene. With numerous state and national parks, beaches, skiing, tax free shopping, historic sites, museums, and more, New Jersey blends together its rich history and exciting present. Home to the nation’s first beach resorts and the birthplace of major inventions, New Jersey offers a picturesque escape and dynamic opportunities for visitors from near and far. For more information, visit www.visitnj.org.
About Tourism Economics
Tourism Economics is an Oxford Economics company with a singular objective to combine an understanding of the travel sector with proven economic tools to answer the most important questions facing our clients. More than 500 companies, associations, and destination work with Tourism Economics every year as a research partner. We bring decades of experience to every engagement to help our clients make better marketing, investment, and policy decisions. Tourism Economics operates out of regional headquarters in Philadelphia and Oxford, with offices in Belfast, Buenos Aires, Dubai, Frankfurt, and Ontario. For additional information, visit www.tourismeconomics.com.
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