Nevada’s tourism industry powers $98 billion economic boost in 2024

Nevada’s tourism and resort industry generated a record $98 billion in total economic impact in 2024, according to the Nevada Resort Association’s (NRA) biennial The Facts report released this week. The report outlines a strong rebound across hospitality, entertainment, and gaming, showcasing both rising domestic travel demand and large-scale industry investment.

Tourism accounted for 37% of Nevada’s total gross domestic product (GDP) and supported 436,600 jobs, nearly one in three jobs statewide. Wages and salaries tied to the sector reached $24.4 billion last year. The industry also contributed $2.4 billion in industry-specific taxes and fees, more than any other sector in the state, and was responsible for 34% of all revenue flowing into the state’s general fund.

“A strong tourism industry fuels job creation, allows small businesses to thrive, generates vital tax revenue for state and local governments, fosters capital investments and strengthens community organizations,” said John Maddox, Chair of the NRA Board of Directors. 

The report, compiled by Las Vegas-based firm Applied Analysis, includes direct, indirect, and induced economic effects calculated through the IMPLAN economic modeling system. It notes a continued expansion of capital investments, with $18 billion worth of tourism-related developments currently underway or in the pipeline. Southern Nevada accounts for $13.8 billion of that total.

Gaming revenue in fiscal year 2024 reached $15.8 billion, reaffirming Nevada’s lead in national gaming performance, with more than triple the revenue of its closest rival, Pennsylvania. Tax revenues from gaming, live entertainment, and lodging collectively lowered the per-household tax burden by an estimated $3,052, according to the study.

The industry’s community footprint was another focal point of the 76-page report. Companies in the sector continue to invest in corporate social responsibility programs, including sustainability, employee volunteerism, and donations to nonprofits.

Initiatives highlighted in the report include Caesars Entertainment’s 6,000 volunteer hours, MGM Resorts’ solar energy expansion capable of powering 90% of Las Vegas operations during the day, and Red Rock Resorts’ $10 million contribution toward transitional housing.

Virginia Valentine, President and CEO of the NRA, emphasized that tourism’s ripple effect sustains much of Nevada’s small business ecosystem. “Our industry spends millions of dollars on goods and services with local vendors, including small businesses," Valentine pointed out. "Leisure and hospitality employees flow back their wages into the economy, supporting neighborhood restaurants, grocery stores, barber shops, salons, dry cleaners, and more."

The report also points to the industry’s continued leadership in employee health benefits, with tourism employers spending an average of $4,800 per worker on insurance, the highest of any industry in the state.

The NRA expects the momentum to continue. With nearly 70 tourism projects in progress across the state and an evolving mix of entertainment, hospitality, and sustainability initiatives, the industry is positioning itself for sustained growth and resilience.