$ Impact

Domestic tourism generated an economic impact of $24.31 million in Sampson County in 1997. This is 4.9% increase over 1996; it compares with a 2.9% increase for North Carolina. Sampson is 61^st in tourism impact among all 100 counties.

Jobs

270 jobs in Sampson County are directly attributable to travel and tourism. Travel generated a $3.76 million payroll in Sampson County in 1997. 

Taxes

State and local tax revenues from travel to Sampson County amounted to $1.98 million in 1997. This represents a $42 tax saving to each county resident. 

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.  

Origins

Top states of origin for North Carolina domestic visitors are Virginia, Florida, Pennsylvania, Maryland, South Carolina, Ohio and Georgia. International visitors come mainly from Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Japan and France.

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.