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Regional Economic
Impact
Tourism
The development of the creative economy in Southwest Virginia is tied directly to tourism and travel.
Creative economy businesses and attractions draw in tourists, which has a large economic impact
on the region.With a population density of only 75 persons per square mile, bringing in outside dollars
to support the economy is essential for growth.
From 2004 to 2016, travel expenditures in Southwest Virginia grew by almost $363 million, with
travelers spending a total of $1011.81million in 2016. In this twelve year period, travel expenditures
have increased by 56%, and by 22% in the six years from 2011 to 2016.
3
Travel expenditures in southwest virginia (millions)
3
Annual travel related tax receipt estimates taken from the Virginia Tourism Corporation Economic
Impact of Domestic Travel in Virginia report