“We just had the best second quarter ever,” DeSantis said. “We have massive numbers of Canadians coming in… they’re coming in strong.”
This milestone underscores Florida’s continued dominance as the Sunshine State of tourism, lifestyle, and investment.
Breaking Down the Numbers
According to VISIT FLORIDA:
- 91.5% of visitors — about 31.5 million — were domestic travelers.
- Overseas arrivals jumped 11.4% year-over-year to 2.3 million.
- Canadian visitation hit 640,000 travelers (1.9% of the total).
- Florida’s airports saw 28.6 million enplanements across 19 hubs, with Punta Gorda (+22.5%) and St. Pete-Clearwater (+14%) leading growth.
- Hotel demand rose 1.2%, reflecting the steady appetite for Florida stays.
Tourism’s Economic Impact
Tourism isn’t just about beaches and theme parks — it’s an economic engine. In 2023 alone, the industry generated $37 billion in tax revenue, saving each Florida household an estimated $2,000.
That revenue supports Florida’s low-tax model and could even bolster upcoming property tax relief initiatives, easing the burden on residents and homeowners.
Challenges Behind the Headlines
Not every Florida community is sharing equally in the boom:
- Coastal towns hit by hurricanes, like Madeira Beach, report revenues down 30% year-over-year.
- Service-sector wages aren’t keeping up with the cost of living, leaving some Floridians struggling despite record visitation.
- Canadian travel, though improving, remains below pre-pandemic levels — a concern for realtors and local economies in traditional snowbird hubs.
Still, VISIT FLORIDA says it’s investing in storm recovery marketing and targeting international travelers from Brazil and beyond, who typically stay longer and spend more.
What This Means for Florida Real Estate
Tourism and real estate are deeply connected. Record-setting visitation drives demand for:
- Vacation rentals and investment properties
- Condos and second homes for Canadians and international buyers
- Short-term rental markets in Orlando, Miami, Tampa, and coastal destinations
With housing costs still high, but tourism booming, Florida remains a prime target for buyers seeking both lifestyle and income opportunities.
How Lendworth USA Helps Buyers and Investors
At Lendworth USA, we make it possible for U.S. residents, Canadians, and foreign nationals to invest in Florida property with ease:
- FHA, USDA, and VA loans for U.S. buyers
- Foreign national mortgages — no U.S. credit history required
- Equity-based lending for investors and entrepreneurs
- Vacation and rental property financing to capitalize on Florida’s booming tourism market
📞 Contact Lendworth USA today to explore mortgage solutions tailored for Florida vacation homes, investment properties, and retirement retreats. With tourism hitting all-time highs, now may be the perfect time to secure your piece of the Sunshine State.