Nashville Tourism Statistics

International and domestic tourists spent $11.62 billion during their trips to Nashville in 2025.⁶

• In 2019, tourists in Nashville generated $7.9 billion in expenditure². However, it decreased to $4.49 billion in 2020 due to the pandemic.
• International and domestic tourist spending recovered in 2021 with $7.37 billion spent².
• In 2022 and 2023, visitors spent $9.97 billion and $10.78 billion, respectively.²
• Visitor spending increased by 4.2% to $11.22 billion in 2024⁴.
• In 2025, spending rose a further 3.5% to a record $11.62 billion¹.
• 2026 outlook: visitor spending is projected to reach $12.2 billion in 2026, up 5%.⁵

• Domestic and international tourists spent $11.62 billion while exploring Nashville in 2025.⁶
• This represented a 3.5% increase from the previous year and a 47% increase from the pre-pandemic year of 2019¹.

How much does the average visitor spend in Nashville?

• The average spending per visitor per trip in Nashville is around $668. This includes accommodation, food, transportation, entertainment, and shopping expenses during their stay.

Note: Derived by dividing total visitor spending by the total number of visitors in 2025.

Where do tourists spend their money in Nashville?

In 2025, visitors spent the most on food and beverages ($2.79 billion)⁶.

• Spending on accommodation reached $2.74 billion, with $2.73 billion spent on recreation⁶.
• Visitors spent $2.14 billion on transportation and $1.21 billion on retail⁶.

• Visit Music City’s 2026 estimate puts visitor spending at $683 per trip and $320 per day⁷, which points to a typical stay of a little over 2 days.

Note: Derived by dividing spending per visitor by spending per day (estimate published September 2026).

How busy are Nashville's hotels?

Davidson County hotels averaged 67.0% occupancy in 2025, at an average daily rate of $199.20, down 1.3% from 2024.⁷

• Room demand rose 2.6%, beating the previous record set in 2023.⁷
• Hotel supply grew 3.4%, so revenue per available room fell 2.1%, while total room revenue rose 1.2%.⁷

2026 so far: through September 12, 2026, hotel occupancy was 69.4%, up 3.2% on the same period of 2025.⁵

• Room demand was up 5%, growing nearly three times faster than hotel supply.⁵
• Hotels earned about $1.5 billion in room revenue, up 5.9%.⁵

People visit Nashville for its music scene, rich history, and iconic venues like the Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium, earning it the title “Country Music Capital.”

• Beyond music, visitors explore cultural landmarks such as Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage, the Parthenon replica, and museums like the Johnny Cash Museum and the National Museum of African American Music.
• Nashville’s renowned hot chicken, barbecue, and thriving culinary scene add to its appeal, while outdoor activities in parks and annual events like the CMA Music Festival ensure there’s something for everyone.

• For those seeking a vibrant ambience rooted in country music, an array of entertainment options, and a wealth of family-oriented activities, Nashville would be a more fitting choice. Nashville welcomed 17.4 million visitors in 2025¹, about 69% more than Memphis.
• If you like historical narratives, iconic blues music, and renowned Southern barbecue, Memphis may be the ideal destination. Memphis and Shelby County drew 10.3 million visitors in 2025.¹⁰

Each city provides a distinctive experience, showcasing its unique cultural heritage.

Learn more about Memphis Tourism Statistics and Tennessee Tourism Statistics here.

For optimal weather and a lively atmosphere, spring (April to early June) and fall (September to early November) are considered the best times to visit Nashville. However, with fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices, winter can also be an appealing option.

Spring (April to June)

• Weather: Mild temperatures ranging from the 60s to 80s Fahrenheit (15-30°C).
• Activities: This season features vibrant music festivals, including the Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival and CMA Fest in early June, which celebrate the city’s rich musical heritage.

Fall (September to November)

• Weather: Comfortable temperatures, typically in the 70s Fahrenheit (around 21-26°C), with lower humidity compared to summer.
• Activities: AmericanaFest, the free Live on the Green concerts and other local events make fall an exciting time to visit.

• Experience Iconic Music Venues: Visit the Grand Ole Opry, Ryman Auditorium, and Broadway honky-tonks for unforgettable live music performances.
• Explore Music History: Tour the Country Music Hall of Fame, Johnny Cash Museum, and Musicians Hall of Fame to dive into Nashville’s musical legacy.
• Discover Cultural Gems: See the Parthenon replica, the National Museum of African American Music, and Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage.
• Enjoy Outdoor Activities: Stroll through Centennial Park, Percy Warner Park, or Bicentennial Capitol Mall for scenic trails and green spaces.
• Attend Festivals & Events: Experience the CMA Music Festival, Nashville Film Festival, and other annual celebrations for entertainment and culture.