Tourism and Travel Power $59.9 Million in Economic Impact for Clay County in 2025
Across the state, a record 46.3 million Iowa visitors spent $7.6 billion and generated $1.2 billion in state and local taxes in 2025.
Spencer, Iowa – October 30, 2026 – Tourism generated $59.9 million in total economic impact for Clay County in 2025, according to a new study announced by the Iowa Tourism Office. Across the state, visitors spent $7.6 billion in Iowa in 2025, driving a total economic impact of $11.3 billion. The study shows continued tourism growth year over year since 2021. Travel-generated expenditures in Clay County totaled $40.22 million, an increase of 8.3% compared to $37.14 million in 2021.
“Tourism plays an important role in Clay County’s economy, and these numbers show just how much of an impact visitors have on our communities,” said Olivia Baxter, Clay County Tourism Manager. “From the Clay County Fair and community events to outdoor recreation, shopping, dining, and everything in between, there are so many reasons people choose to visit our area. We’re fortunate to have local businesses, attractions, and organizations that work together to create experiences that bring visitors to Clay County and support our local economy.”
Tourism in Iowa sustained more than 72,000 jobs across the state, including 296 in Clay County. Of the $40.22 million in direct spending, visitors spent $17.37 million (43.2%) on retail and food & beverage in Clay County.
“In 2021, we established a five-year strategic plan to strengthen and grow Iowa’s tourism industry in collaboration with local, regional and state partners,” said Amy Zeigler, State Tourism Manager, Iowa Tourism Office. “Every year since then, steady growth in visitor volume, spending and tax revenue shows that our approach is paying off. Tourism is now one of the major economic pillars of our state. We are encouraged to see continued growth with early 2026 data that shows hotel and short-term rental booking revenue up 11.3% and 12.5% respectively, year over year.”
Sustained tourism sector growth since 2021
- In 2025, visitor volume was up about 11%, from 41.8 million to 46.3 million. It has increased every year.
- Visitor spending was up about 23%, from $6.1 billion to $7.6 billion. It has also increased every year.
- Visitor-generated state and local tax revenue increased about 16%, from $1.0 billion to $1.2 billion.
Every dollar visitors spend supports Iowa businesses and workers and helps fund the services on which residents rely.
The study was conducted by the Tourism Economics group within Oxford Economics. To learn more about the data and methodology, please visit: 2025_-iowa_tourism_economic_impact-_final.pdf.
About Clay County Tourism
Clay County Tourism is dedicated to promoting Spencer and the surrounding communities as a destination for visitors. Through marketing, partnerships, and the promotion of local attractions, events, and experiences, Clay County Tourism works to increase visitation, support local businesses, and strengthen the county’s economy. Clay County Tourism operates through the Spencer Chamber of Commerce in partnership with local government and community organizations.
About the Iowa Tourism Office
The Iowa Tourism Office, part of the Iowa Economic Development Authority, works closely with community partners, attractions and events, to promote the state’s beautifully vast scenery and unique history. For more information on everything Iowa has to offer tourists, visit traveliowa.com.