In case you missed it — Columbia received the No. 1 ranking as one of the top nine places to live in SC, according to Travel + Leisure , for its central location, landmarks like Lake Murray, popularity with younger generations, and low cost of living.
It seems both residents + tourists enjoy Columbia, because according to some recent data provided by Experience Columbia , the region’s destination marketing organization, visitation increased from 15.1 million in 2021 to 15.8 million in 2022, and visitor spending increased 12% over the previous year to $1.7 billion.
Let’s break down some other tourism stats + we’ll give you ways to get involved and keep the ball rolling as citizens.
- Of the $1.7 billion spent in Columbia, food + beverage spending accounted for $487 million — that’s 29% of each visitor’s budget.
It’s no secret Soda Citizens like to grub, that’s why we put together a happy hour guide
, vegan guide
, coffee guide
, brunch guide
, and stay tuned for a lunch guide.
- Transportation, including both air and transportation within the destination, added up to 18% of visitor spending.
Fun fact: Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) recently announced a partnership with American Airlines that offers Soda Citizens a nonstop flight to Chicago
. Next time you’re looking to travel, fly local
.
- The total economic impact sustained over 22,300 jobs and generated $130 million in state and local tax revenues in 2022.
See our guide on local top employers and industries
that contribute to the Midlands’ economic impact.
- Lodging accounted for 17% of visitor spending ($286 million.)
May we interest you in a staycation? Book a stay at the Chestnut Cottage which just reopened or stay at Columbia’s first boutique hotel, Hotel Trundle. Stay up-to-date with Hotel Trundle’s expansion —like the Flutter Wing + The Dens .
Read more tourism stats from Experience Columbia.