Oklahoma’s tourism industry generated nearly $12.8 billion in direct visitor spending in 2025, supporting more than 109,000 jobs across the state, officials said. The Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department said the numbers show tourism remains a major economic driver in all 77 counties.
An aerial view of downtown Oklahoma City
Key Takeaways
- Visitors spent nearly $12.8 billion across Oklahoma in 2025, marking another year of growth for the state’s tourism industry.
- More than 109,000 Oklahomans work in tourism-supported jobs, from hotels and restaurants to attractions and outdoor recreation businesses.
- Tourism generated nearly $955 million in state and local tax revenue, helping fund services in communities across Oklahoma.
- The industry added about 960 jobs compared to the previous year, reflecting continued demand from travelers.
- From major cities like Oklahoma City and Tulsa to popular rural destinations, tourism spending continues to support businesses and local economies statewide.
Oklahoma Tourism Economic Impact
Oklahoma’s tourism industry generated nearly $12.8 billion in direct visitor spending in 2025, supporting more than 109,000 jobs across the state, officials said. The Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department said the numbers show tourism remains a major economic driver in all 77 counties.
Visitor Spending And Tax Revenue
The report found visitor spending produced nearly $955 million in combined state and local tax revenue, including $416.2 million in local tax revenue and $538.3 million in state tax revenue.
About 960 tourism-related jobs were added in 2025, a 0.9% increase from the previous year.
FAQ
How does Oklahoma calculate tourism’s economic impact?
The figures come from the annual Oklahoma Travel Impacts reports prepared by Dean Runyan Associates and commissioned by the Oklahoma Department of Tourism and Recreation.
Which parts of Oklahoma benefit most from tourism spending?
The report found tourism supports economies statewide, including major population centers such as Oklahoma and Tulsa counties as well as tourism-focused rural counties like Bryan, Love and McCurtain.
What types of tourism activities drive spending in Oklahoma?
Officials said visitor spending is tied to sectors including recreation, entertainment, hospitality, dining and outdoor tourism.
Where can people view the full data?
County-level, House district and Senate district tourism impact reports are available through the Oklahoma Department of Tourism and Recreation’s research webpage.
