Last Saturday, May 2, marked the start of National Travel and Tourism Week, a nationwide recognition of the travel industry’s impact on local communities.
“National Travel and Tourism Week provides an opportunity for us to recognize the individuals and businesses who power Mariposa County’s economy,” said Jonathan Farrington, CEO/Executive Director of the Yosemite Mariposa County Tourism Bureau. “Nearly three out of every four dollars spent locally comes from visitor spending, supporting local jobs, sustaining small businesses and helping reduce the tax burden on residents.”
In Mariposa County, the week serves as an opportunity to celebrate the positive impact of tourism and recognize the businesses and individuals who make the visitor experience possible.
According to the 2025 Economic Impact of Travel report, prepared for Visit California by Dean Runyan Associates, tourism plays a defining role in Mariposa County’s economy.
Tourism remains the backbone of the local economy. Total taxable sales for Mariposa County in 2025 exceeded $270 million, with approximately $200 million of those dollars generated by travel-related spending.
Nearly 73 percent of all taxable sales in the county are tied directly to visitors. The report shows this is the highest share of taxable sales attributable to visitor spending among California counties.
For comparison, travel-related spending accounts for approximately 65.1 percent of taxable sales in Mono County (the next highest in the state), 14.3 percent in Tuolumne County and only 8.4 percent in Madera County.
Tourism is also a major contributor to public revenue. Travel-generated tax revenue totaled approximately $50 million last year, directly supporting essential county services and infrastructure.
In addition, tourism significantly reduces the financial burden on local residents. Visitor generated tax revenue equates to approximately $6,700 per household annually.
Without this contribution, the cost of maintaining essential public services such as fire protection, road maintenance and law enforcement would need to be absorbed elsewhere. Tourism supports local jobs, sustains small businesses and plays a critical role in maintaining the quality of life for residents.
“We hope you will join us in celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week as we recognize the people and businesses whose efforts help drive Mariposa County’s economy and strengthen our community,” said Farrington.
About the tourism bureau
The Yosemite Mariposa County Tourism Bureau is the official destination marketing organization for Mariposa County, home to Yosemite National Park. Its primary focus is generating overnight stays during the off-season, helping to balance visitation year-round. The bureau’s mission is to promote sustainable tourism that supports the local economy while preserving the natural and cultural treasures that make Yosemite Mariposa County a special place to live and visit.
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