SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today highlighted recent data showing California’s tourism economy continues its strong recovery and growth, with statewide travel spending reaching a record high $158.9 billion in 2025, reinforcing the Golden State’s position as the #1 travel destination in the nation.
More jobs!
Tourism, as a key California Jobs First industry sector, continues to be a major economic engine across every region of the state:
- California added 4,350 travel-related jobs in 2025, bringing total tourism employment to approximately 1.2 million jobs statewide.
- Increased hotel demand and bookings outpaced national trends, with 1.2 million additional room nights booked across the state.
San Francisco leads in tourism
The home of the Golden Gate Bridge remains a key driver of the state’s tourism economy, with visitor spending reaching $14.2 billion in 2025, surpassing pre-pandemic highs.
Both San Francisco and the state of California as a whole are benefiting from increased visitation tied to major global events, including the Super Bowl and upcoming FIFA World Cup matches, which are boosting local businesses, restaurants, and hotels.
