County report shows tourism bouncing back with an all-time high for lodging occupancy

June 2021 proved to be a strong month for Sarasota County in terms of tourism statistics compared to June 2019 with the lodging occupancy at the all-time highest.  

The county saw a 33.6% increase in paid lodging visitors with a total of 132,700 visitors for the month. Visit Sarasota County also reported an increase in visitors from the midwest and northeast proving that Floridians aren’t the only ones traveling. 

While the organization reported almost no international travel, the county is showing stronger numbers compared to the country as a whole, according to a press release. 

The tourism organization also released other metrics of travel, comparing June 2021 to June 2019, including: 

• Visitor direct spending increased 44.1% with a total of $117,693,300 in 2021.
• The area’s lodging occupancy increased from 63.8% to 81.3% in 2021. 
• The daily rate average in terms of lodging increased by 31% from $157.19 in 2019 to $204.55 in 2021. 
• The number of lodging rooms sold in June 2019 came to 211,500 before increasing 35.9% in June 2021 with a total of 287,400 sold. 

Currently, Visit Sarasota County is concerned over the impact that red tide will have on tourism.