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Outdoor Recreation as an Economic Driver

The outdoor recreation economy plays a critical role in supporting economic growth in the United States. The most recent U.S. Burea of Economic Analysis (BEA) data* shows that outdoor recreation contributed more than $1.3 trillion to the U.S. economy. Outdoor recreation represents 2.4% of U.S. GDP and creates nearly 5.2 million jobs. 

Boating and Fishing Are the Top Contributors to the Outdoor Recreation Economy

Recreational boating/fishing were the largest conventional activities for the nation at $38.4 billion in current-dollar value added and were the largest conventional activities in 34 states. The states with the largest contributions were Florida ($4.4 billion), California ($3.3 billion), and Texas ($3.0 billion).

This year’s release shows a great year for the outdoor recreation economy in 2024, reflecting the desire of Americans across the country to get outdoors and recreate. 

*Released March 5, 2026. 

 

Key Outdoor Recreation Industry Data

 
2.4%
of U.S. GDP
 
$1.3T
in economic output
 
5.2M
jobs supported

 

Outdoor Recreation’s Share of GDP

 Boating and Fishing are the #1 Contributors to the Outdoor Recreation Economy

  1. Boating and Fishing
  2. RVing
  3. Hunting/Shooting/Trapping
  4. Snow activities