Spokane Unites with Orange County, Florida, Clark County, Nevada, New York, San Diego, California in Attracting US, Canada and Australia Tourists with More Than Two Hundred Thirty-Three Million Dollars in Tax Revenues, What You Need To Know

The answers will surprise you.

Read on to uncover what you really need to know.

Spokane County has never seen anything like it. In 2024, more than 10 million visitors explored its vibrant downtown, hiked its scenic trails, and filled its hotels. These visitors spent a staggering $1.53 billion, setting an all-time record and boosting jobs, local businesses, and state tax revenues.

But beneath the surface of this celebratory wave lies a complex and sobering reality.

Despite the economic high tide, both Spokane city and county governments are heading toward turbulent financial waters. City coffers show a $3.8 million shortfall, while county officials are staring down a looming $20.6 million deficit by 2026.

How can a city flush with tourism revenue still bleed financially?

In 2024, Spokane had to lower its revenue growth projection from 2.3% to just 1.2%. And even that might be optimistic. Meanwhile, Spokane County only hit half of its projected 2% growth, and now forecasts a conservative 1% increase for 2025.

This fiscal stagnation presents a paradox: tourism is thriving, but core public services may face cuts unless new revenue sources emerge.

Sectors like lodging and food and beverage have not only recovered from the pandemic slump but exceeded pre-2020 benchmarks. The food and beverage sector alone supports 5,281 jobs, fueled by a steady stream of tourists dining out across the county.

Additionally, population growth and inflation outpace sales tax revenue, making the current model unsustainable.

Simultaneously, doubling down on infrastructure investment and destination marketing will be crucial. As competition from other Pacific Northwest cities intensifies, Spokane must sustain its momentum to remain a top-tier travel choice.