Published on
August 17, 2025
Scottsdale, Arizona, experienced an exceptional economic surge in 2024, with a nearly $4 billion influx into its economy, according to new reports published by the city’s tourism and events division. This remarkable growth was primarily driven by the city’s thriving tourism sector, which continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the local economy. The city welcomed more than 11 million visitors, who collectively contributed an impressive $3.7 billion in economic output. Of these visitors, 1.7 million were international travelers who stayed overnight, underscoring Scottsdale’s global appeal and its status as a key destination for international tourism.
The city’s growth in tourism was not limited to international guests. Scottsdale saw an increase of over 300,000 visitors compared to 2023, marking a notable rise in both overnight stays and day trips. International tourists alone accounted for a growth of more than 127,000 visitors, highlighting the growing global interest in Scottsdale as a premier destination. This surge is indicative of the city’s ability to cater to both leisure and business travelers, establishing it as one of the top destinations for visitors from across the U.S. and beyond.
A significant portion of the revenue generated from tourism was directed toward local businesses, further emphasizing the positive impact of the influx of tourists. Retail shops in Scottsdale saw a substantial boost in sales, with 55% of overnight visitors choosing to shop at locally owned businesses. Day-trip visitors showed an even greater inclination toward supporting local commerce, with 59% of them opting to make purchases from Scottsdale-based shops. This pattern of local spending not only benefits the city’s economy but also strengthens the local business community, helping them thrive in an increasingly competitive tourism market.
Among the key drivers of Scottsdale’s tourism success is WestWorld, the city’s largest indoor/outdoor venue. Between October 2023 and June 2024, WestWorld generated nearly $163.6 million in tourism-related revenue, becoming a central hub for major events that attract thousands of visitors annually. These events, along with others like the WM Phoenix Open and the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction, continue to play a vital role in drawing both national and international crowds to Scottsdale. This ongoing influx of visitors from across the U.S. and abroad further cements Scottsdale’s reputation as a sought-after destination for high-profile events.
The city’s robust economic growth can also be attributed to the strength of its tourism brand. Rachel Sacco, the president and CEO of Experience Scottsdale, pointed out that the year-over-year growth in tourism demonstrates the enduring strength of Scottsdale’s brand, which continues to attract millions of visitors from across the United States and around the world. This growth, paired with a diverse range of activities and events, helps keep Scottsdale at the forefront of travelers’ minds.
Despite a slight decrease in the percentage of domestic overnight visitors staying in resorts and hotels—dropping from 87% in 2023 to 79% in 2024—Scottsdale’s overall hotel occupancy rate remained stable at 65%. This suggests that while some visitors may be exploring alternative lodging options, the city’s hotels and resorts still maintain a significant share of overnight stays. This indicates the city’s continued ability to offer a wide array of accommodations, appealing to various traveler preferences and budgets.
As part of its commitment to enhancing its tourism infrastructure, Scottsdale has projected an investment of $54.7 million in municipal services for tourists in the 2024-2025 fiscal year. However, the city is set to exceed this investment, with visitor-generated taxes expected to reach $77.5 million, surpassing the projected expenditure by $22.8 million. This impressive tax revenue provides Scottsdale with the means to reinvest in local infrastructure and public services, further enhancing the visitor experience and ensuring that tourism remains a driving force behind the city’s economic success.
Scottsdale’s tourism industry continues to be a major engine of economic growth, attracting millions of visitors each year and generating billions of dollars in revenue. With iconic events, a diverse range of activities, and a vibrant local business community, Scottsdale remains a top destination for travelers from across the U.S. and around the world. As the city continues to invest in its tourism infrastructure and services, it is poised to remain a premier destination for years to come, contributing significantly to the local economy and solidifying its place as one of the most sought-after cities in the United States.
