BLOUNT COUNTY, Tenn. — More money is being spent by Blount County visitors, according to a recent statewide report that named it the eighth in the state when it comes to visitor spending.
Davidson County, which includes Nashville, topped the list, followed by Shelby County which includes Memphis. Other counties on the list include Sevier County, Knox County, Hamilton County, Williamson County and Rutherford County.
Suburban Nashville counties, namely Wilson County and Montgomery County, rounded out the counties that see the most visitor spending, placing ninth and tenth on the list.
Tourists spent more in Blount County last year than they did the year before, according to the report from the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development and Governor Bill Lee.
The Economic Impact of Travel of Tennessee Counties report shows visitors spent around $576 million in Blount County in 2023, up from $543 million the year prior. According to the report, Blount County households saw an annual tax savings of more than $1,000 last year due to visitor spending.
The Blount Partnership said tourism employment is also at an all-time high in Blount County.
"When tourism grows, Tennessee reaps the benefit with increased sales tax revenue," Lee said in a report. "Tourism boosts local economies, supports businesses and jobs, funds public services and creates a better quality of life for all Tennesseans. We welcome visitors from around the world to experience Tennessee's music, scenic outdoor beauty, culture and food from Mountain City to Memphis."
