Tourism Works Here: How Visitors Strengthened Noble County’s Economy in 2024

In 2024, visitors spent $42.6 million across Noble County on lodging, dining, shopping, transportation, and entertainment. That spending generated $18.7 million in total economic impact, supporting local businesses, workers, and public services throughout the county. Tourism is more than weekend getaways and lake days—it’s a powerful economic engine for Noble County.

“Tourism brings outside dollars into Noble County and turns them into local jobs, wages, and stronger communities—supporting small businesses, quality of life, and the people who call this place home,” said Grace Caswell, CEO of Visit Noble County.

What Visitor Spending Really Means

Tourism is considered an export industry—visitors bring money from outside the county and spend it locally. Unlike many industries, tourism cannot be offshored, and its benefits are rooted directly in place.

In Noble County, nearly 44 cents of every visitor dollar stayed local, directly contributing to the county’s gross domestic product. That local retention supports not only tourism-facing businesses, but also supply-chain industries like transportation, professional services, construction, and healthcare.

Jobs, Wages, and Workforce Stability

Tourism supported 419 jobs in Noble County in 2024, generating more than $10.2 million in wages. These jobs span restaurants, retail shops, hotels, attractions, and the many businesses that support them behind the scenes.

Every $101,716 spent by visitors supported one local job, reinforcing tourism’s role as a steady contributor to employment across the county.

Supporting Public Services—Without Raising Local Taxes

Visitor spending also generated $6.4 million in federal, state, and local tax revenue in 2024. These dollars help fund essential services and infrastructure—supporting the community without placing additional tax burden on residents.

A Resilient Industry with Local Impact

While overall visitor spending dipped slightly year-over-year, tourism’s economic impact, wages, and jobs all increased in 2024—demonstrating the sector’s resilience and long-term value.

Tourism doesn’t just showcase Noble County—it sustains it. From main streets to lakeshores, visitor spending strengthens local businesses, supports families, and enhances the quality of life for everyone who calls Noble County home.