09/01/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Southwest Tennessee Tourism Generates $482.7 Million in Visitor Spending in 2025
JACKSON, Tenn. — Visitors to Southwest Tennessee generated more than $482.7 million in direct spending in 2025, according to newly released economic impact data from the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development.
The Southwest Tennessee Tourism Association represents Chester, Decatur, Hardeman, Hardin, Haywood, Henderson, Madison and McNairy counties and works with communities, attractions, businesses and tourism partners to promote the region and its diverse visitor experiences.
The 2025 Southwest Tennessee Travel Snapshot shows tourism supported 3,880 jobs and generated more than $114 million in labor income throughout the eight-county region. Visitor activity also produced approximately $29.4 million in state taxes and $19.9 million in local taxes.
“Tourism continues to be an important part of the economic story in communities across Southwest Tennessee,” said Marty Marbry, Executive Director of the Southwest Tennessee Tourism Association. “These numbers represent visitors who are dining in our restaurants, staying in our lodging properties, shopping in our communities and enjoying the attractions and experiences our region has to offer. Tourism supports businesses, jobs and the quality of life in the places we call home.”
On average, visitors spent approximately $1.32 million each day across the region in 2025.
Food and beverage businesses received the largest share of direct visitor spending at approximately $169.2 million, followed by transportation at $117.4 million, lodging at $100.9 million, retail at $56.3 million, and amusement and recreation at approximately $38.9 million.
The economic impact of tourism is felt throughout all eight counties, with each community offering a different mix of attractions, outdoor recreation, history, music, dining, events and local experiences.
“Each of our eight counties has something unique to offer,” Marbry said. “Our goal is to help visitors see Southwest Tennessee as more than a single stop. We want them to explore each Small Town. Big Story. and find their own reasons to come back.”
From the Tennessee River and Pickwick Lake to the Hatchie River, state parks, historic sites, museums, local restaurants and small-town festivals, Southwest Tennessee offers a wide range of experiences for visitors.
Through regional marketing, digital promotions, publications, video projects, partnerships and destination development, Southwest Tennessee Tourism Association works to increase awareness of the region and encourage visitors to explore all eight counties.
The association’s regional approach also provides smaller communities and tourism partners with an opportunity to be part of a larger marketing effort.
“When we work together, we have a stronger voice and a greater opportunity to tell Southwest Tennessee’s story,” Marbry said. “Tourism is an investment in our communities, and we are proud to work alongside our partners to welcome visitors and encourage them to experience all that our region has to offer.”
2025 Southwest Tennessee Tourism at a Glance
• $482.7 million in direct visitor spending
• 3,880 jobs supported
• More than $114 million in labor income
• Approximately $49.3 million in state and local tax revenue
• Eight counties working together to promote Southwest Tennessee
For more information about Southwest Tennessee and its visitor experiences, visit VisitSWTenn.com.
