September 4, 2025 (Utica, NY) – Oneida County Tourism (OCT), in partnership with Oneida County government and tourism leaders, is proud to announce the latest economic impact figures showing the strength of the county’s tourism sector.
According to the 2024 Economic Impact of Visitors to New York (Central New York Focus) report, prepared by Tourism Economics, an Oxford Economic company, Oneida County continues to be the driving force behind the Central New York tourism economy—accounting for 60% of the region’s total visitor spending.
Key Findings for Central New York & Oneida County
- Oneida County Visitor Spending: Oneida County represented $2.1 billion in direct tourism sales in 2024, leading the region at 60%. (Report, p.22)
- Visitor Spending Growth: Visitor spending across Central New York rose 6.1% over the previous year. Chenango County posted the highest percentage growth at 8.9%, while Oneida County drove regional momentum with a 6.4% increase.
- Personal Income Impact: Tourism in Central New York generated $1.0 billion in direct personal income and $1.6 billion total including indirect impacts. Oneida County alone accounted for $995 million, the highest in the region and 16% of the total share. (Report, p.24)
- Tax Revenue: Tourism in Central New York generated $351 million in state and local taxes in 2024, and contributed $167 million in local sales, property, and hotel bed taxes. Oneida County contributed 56% of the region’s tourism tax base — nearly $200 million in taxes.
- To put this in perspective, without tourism, the average household in Oneida County would pay an additional $2,079 in taxes each year to maintain the same level of government services. Across Central New York, that household savings averages $1,165 per year. (Report, p. 26).
Transformative Investments
Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. said, “These numbers confirm what we’ve long known — Oneida County is the engine that drives tourism in Central New York. Our leadership in this sector is creating jobs, strengthening local businesses and generating millions in tax savings for our residents. With transformative investments like the Utica University Nexus Center, Turning Stone Evolution and continued development of our cultural, recreational and entertainment assets, we’re not only sustaining today’s growth, but building the foundation for even greater economic impact in the future. Tourism is one of our strongest industries, and Oneida County will continue to lead the way.”
“The way we define and promote tourism has shifted dramatically over the past decade,” said Sarah Foster Calero, President of Oneida County Tourism. “It’s no longer limited to leisure travel and bus groups—it’s conferences, large-scale sporting events, tournaments, and much more. That’s why investments like the Turning Stone Evolution and the Utica University Nexus Center are so critical: they position Oneida County as a competitive force in multiple markets. Combined with our rich mix of outdoor recreation, culinary scene, and cultural experiences, this evolving tourism economy generates real returns—billions in spending, millions in tax relief, and jobs that sustain our communities.”
Regional Collaboration
Tourism leaders emphasized that success across Central New York is shared. “Visitors don’t stop at county lines,” Calero noted. “A trip to Utica, Rome, or Sylvan Beach may also include a stop in Little Falls for the Cheese Festival or New Berlin for the legendary Unadilla MX motocross races, or beyond. That’s why our counties work together—what’s good for one county is good for the region.”
Looking Ahead
OCT continues to promote events, attractions, and visitor experiences that make Oneida County a premier destination. Learn more by visiting oneidacountytourism.com, following OCT on social media, or reading Sarah’s monthly Buzzworthy column in Mohawk Valley Living.
About Oneida County Tourism
Oneida County Tourism is the official tourism promotion agency for Oneida County, representing Utica, Rome, Verona, and Sylvan Beach. Through strategic marketing and public relations, the organization attracts visitors across sectors, including leisure, meetings, sports, travel trade, and film/TV production. Governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, OCT is dedicated to showcasing the region’s rich heritage, vibrant culture, and natural beauty.
About the Report
The 2024 Economic Impact of Visitors to New York State (Central New York Focus) report was prepared by Tourism Economics for Empire State Development and I LOVE NY. It measures the economic contributions of tourism to state and county economies across visitor spending, income, employment, and tax revenue.
