Massachusetts Tourism Statistics

Page last updated: 5 November 2025

Massachusetts is a New England state known for its historical landmarks, coastal scenery, and cultural sites.

How many tourists visit Massachusetts each year?

Over 2.5 million international tourists visited Massachusetts in 2024.¹

• Massachusetts attracted 2.5 million international visitors in 2019. However, when the pandemic hit in 2020, this number dropped by 80% to approximately 500,000.

• In 2021, around 600,000 international tourists visited Massachusetts and this rose in 2022 to 1.3 million visitors.

• The figure climbed to 2.1 million in 2023, though this was still 16% lower than in 2019 (pre-pandemic).

• International visitor numbers have rebounded to 2019 levels in 2024, with 2.5 million visitors recorded.

How many people visited Massachusetts in 2024?

• Massachusetts saw 52.6 million visitors in 2024. Of these, 50.1 million were domestic travelers, while international tourists accounted for 2.5 million.

How many people visited Massachusetts in 2023?

• In 2023, Massachusetts welcomed 52.3 million visitors, with 2.1 million being international tourists and 50.2 million domestic travellers.

How much do tourists spend in Massachusetts every year?

International and domestic tourists spent over $24.2 billion during their trips to Massachusetts in 2024.

• In 2019, tourists in Massachusetts generated $20 billion in expenditure. However, it decreased to $10.3 billion in 2020 due to the pandemic.

• International and domestic tourist spending recovered in 2021 with $17 billion spent. 

• In 2022 and 2023, visitors spent $22.4 billion and $23.6 billion, respectively.

• Visitor spending rose by 2.5% to $24.2 billion in 2024.

How much do tourists spend in Massachusetts in 2024?

• Visitors spent $24.2 billion while exploring Massachusetts in 2024, a 2.5% increase from 2023 and a 21% increase from pre-pandemic level of 2019.

How much do tourists spend in Massachusetts in 2023?

• Domestic and international tourists spent $23.6 billion while exploring Massachusetts in 2023. 

How much does it cost to visit Massachusetts?

• Visitors to Massachusetts spend about $627 per trip in Massachusetts, covering accommodations, dining, transportation, and attraction.

Most Visited County in Massachusetts by Visitors Spending

• Visitors to Massachusetts spent the most in Suffolk county in 2024, at $8.83 billion. This was followed by Middlesex county, where visitors spent $3.88 billion.

• Visitors at Barnstable spent $2.78 billion, while Norfolk and Worcester visitors spent $1.38 billion and $1.3 billion, respectively.

How long do visitors stay in Massachusetts?

• Domestic and international tourists spent an average of 2.6 nights visiting and exploring the wonders of Massachusetts in 2024.

Where is Massachusetts?

Massachusetts is located in the northeastern region of the United States, specifically within the New England area. It is bordered by several states and bodies of water:

• North: Vermont and New Hampshire
• South: Rhode Island and Connecticut
• West: New York
• East: The Atlantic Ocean
  

The state covers an area of approximately 10,554 square miles (27,336 square kilometres), making it the seventh smallest state in the U.S.

Capital of Massachusetts

The capital and largest city is Boston, which serves as a cultural and economic hub for the region. Other significant cities include Worcester, Springfield, and Cambridge.

Economic Impact  – Massachusetts Tourism Statistics 2024

• 1,478 Jobs Added: Visitor-driven employment increased from 154,330 in 2023 to 155,808 in 2024, adding 1,478 jobs, a 1% growth from the previous year.

• 2.8% Growth in Tax Revenue: Tax revenue from visitor spending grew slightly to $2.3 billion in 2024 (a $63.5 million increase versus 2023), generating approximately $841 per Massachusetts household.

• The tourism industry generated $6.5 billion in wages and proprietor income in 2024.

When is the best time to visit Massachusetts?

The best time to visit Massachusetts is during spring (April to June) and fall (September to November), when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is at its best.

• Best Time for Sightseeing:
  May and October offer the perfect balance of mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Daytime highs usually range from the mid-60s to mid-70s°F (18–24°C), making it ideal for exploring Boston, hiking, or enjoying fall foliage drives.

• Best Time for Beaches:
  If heading to Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, or Nantucket, plan for July or August, when the Atlantic waters are warm enough for swimming and coastal towns come alive with festivals and seafood shacks.

• Cheapest Time to Visit:
  Winter months (December to March) are the most budget-friendly, especially outside the ski areas. While temperatures can drop below freezing, you’ll find lower hotel rates and cozy winter events.

Why do tourist visit Massachussets?

Tourists visit Massachusetts for its rich history, scenic beauty, and cultural experiences. The state attracts visitors with iconic landmarks like the Freedom Trail in Boston, the beaches of Cape Cod, the islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, and the autumn foliage of the Berkshires.

• Travelers also enjoy its world-class museums, diverse cuisine, and seasonal attractions such as skiing in winter and festivals year-round.

Is Massachusetts safe to visit?

Yes, Massachusetts is generally safe to visit, with crime rates below the U.S. average and steady improvements in public safety.

• The violent crime rate in 2024 was about 315 incidents per 100,000 people, around 12% lower than the national average.

• The property crime rate was approximately 1,112 incidents per 100,000 people, about 37% lower than the U.S. average.

• Recent data also show a continued decline in both violent and property crimes compared to 2023.

Overall, Massachusetts maintains a strong record of safety for travelers. While standard precautions are always recommended, the state’s low crime rates make it a secure and welcoming destination for tourists.

Massachusetts Travel Statistics – International & Domestic Tourism

In 2024, domestic travellers accounted for 50.1 million tourists, making up 95% of the total visitors while international tourism amounted to 2.5 million. 

• Massachusetts welcomed a combined total of 50.1 million international and domestic tourists in 2019. 

• However, when the pandemic struck in 2020, visitor numbers dropped significantly to 34.2 million.

• Massachusetts received a total of 44.1 million tourists in 2021, despite the emergence of a new COVID variant. Domestic tourism rebounded with 43.5 million visitors, while international tourism remained low, with only 600,000 tourists.

• In 2022 and 2023, both domestic and international tourism totalled 51 million and 52.3 million, respectively. 

• Total tourist volume increased slightly to 52.6 million in 2024.

Massachusetts & US Travel Resources

How popular is Massachusetts as a tourist destination?

• Boston alone draws around 17 million tourists annually, making it the most-visited location in Massachusetts.

• Boston also consistently ranks among the Top 10 U.S. destinations for trade shows, as reported by the Trade Show News Network (TSNN).
  

What are some tourist attractions in Massachusetts?

• Freedom Trail: This iconic 2.5-mile trail in Boston connects 16 historical sites, including the Boston Common, Paul Revere’s House, and the USS Constitution.
  
• Faneuil Hall Marketplace: Known as the “Cradle of Liberty,” this historic marketplace features shops, restaurants, and street performers, making it a popular spot for visitors.
  
• Cape Cod Beaches: Renowned for their scenery and recreational opportunities, the beaches of Cape Cod are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
  
• Boston Common and Public Garden: America’s oldest public park and the first botanical garden offer beautiful landscapes, walking paths, and the famous Swan Boats.
  
• Fenway Park: Home to the Boston Red Sox, is one of the oldest baseball stadiums in the U.S. and a historic site for sports fans.
  
  
  
  

Massachusetts Travel Statistics Resources

• Boston Statistics
  

USA Travel Statistics Resources

• Arizona Statistics (incl. Grand Canyon National Park)
• California Statistics (incl. Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, Universal Studios Hollywood)
• Florida Statistics (incl. Destin, Key West, Miami, Orlando, Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World)
• Hawaii Statistics (incl. Kauai, Maui, Oahu)
• Illinois Statistics (incl. Chicago)
• Louisiana Statistics (incl. New Orleans)
• Nevada Statistics (incl. Las Vegas)
• New York Statistics (incl. New York City, Statue of Liberty)
• South Dakota Statistics (incl. Mount Rushmore)
• Tennessee Statistics (incl. Memphis, Nashville)
• Texas Statistics (incl. Dallas, Houston, San Antonio)
• Utah Statistics
• Washington Statistics (incl. Seattle)
• Yellowstone National Park Statistics
  
  
  
  

---

Reference

1. VM: Tourism Key Figures and Statistics ↩︎