CHICAGO, Ill. (WJPF)  —  Governor JB Pritzker announced Monday that Illinois had reached its highest-ever hotel revenue figures in Fiscal Year 2023, surpassing the pre-pandemic record set in Fiscal Year 2019.

In addition to the $308 million in tax revenue, Illinois welcomed 111 million visitors who spent $44 billion in 2022 – representing 14 million additional travelers spending $12 billion more than calendar year 2021.

“I am proud to announce that in the fiscal year ending June 30, Illinois saw the highest ever hotel revenue numbers. More tourism means millions of new visitors exploring all the amazing things that our state and city have to offer – supporting small businesses and local economies along the way,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Whether you’re a life-long resident of the Land of Lincoln looking to explore your own state, or an out-of-town visitor curious to discover the cool entertainment, award winning culinary delights, or all the great local shopping: we’re here to welcome you.”

Visitor spending rose to $44 billion in 2022, a $12 billion increase over calendar year 2021, according to data provided by Tourism Economics. As a result of tourist spending and visits in 2022, the overall economic impact amounted to $78 billion, a 30% increase from the roughly $60 billion economic impact in 2021.

State hotel revenue collections are provided by the Illinois Department of Revenue. The figure represents all of Illinois’ hotels, motels, and lodging establishment’s taxable revenue. The annual economic impact of visitors is compiled by Tourism Economics and measures the number of visitors as well as their impact on Illinois’ economy during the calendar year.