Columbus County Travel and Tourism Facts
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$ Impact |
Domestic tourism generated an economic impact of $31.96 million in Columbus County in 1997. This is 3.9% increase over 1996; it compares with a 2.9% increase for North Carolina. Columbus is 55th in tourism impact among all 100 counties.
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Jobs |
330 jobs in Columbus County are directly attributable to travel and tourism. Travel generated a $4.59 million payroll in Columbus County in 1997.
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Taxes |
State and local tax revenues from travel to Columbus County amounted to $2.57 million in 1997. This represents a $52 tax saving to each county resident.
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Attractions |
Area attractions include Lake Waccamaw State Park and nearby Atlantic beaches, which offer opportunities for swimming, fishing and boating.
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Visitors |
A 1994 survey found historic sites, beaches, scenic areas, museums, golf, and fishing most popular amount visitor to North Carolina. Average age is 41 years; 45% had household incomes $50,000 or more; 48% are college graduates, 21% graduate or professional school educated.
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Origins |
Top states of origin for North Carolina domestic visitors are Virginia, Florida, Pennsylvania, Maryland, South Carolina, Ohio and Georgia.
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Hotels |
Some 38% of visitors stay in hotels and motels. Hotel occupancy for the Southeast economic development region varies seasonally. During 1997 it ranged from 37.98% to 74.13%; this compares with occupancy ranging from 55.5% to 94.0% for 1995. Average daily rates for this region in 1997 ranged from $31.29 to $67.71.
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