North Carolina Outdoor Recreation Economy — Data & Statistics

North Carolina’s outdoor recreation economy generated $17.77B in value added in 2024, representing 2.1% of the state’s GDP. The sector supported 155.5K jobs with $8.46B in total compensation. North Carolina ranked #11 among all 50 states by outdoor recreation value added.

Key Statistics (2024)

Value Added

$17.77B

Percent of GDP

2.1%

Employment

155.5K

Compensation

$8.46B

Compare With Similar States

• Pennsylvania — $20.38B value added
• Ohio — $20.08B value added
• Colorado — $18.13B value added
• Indiana — $17.12B value added
• New Jersey — $16.16B value added
• Tennessee — $15.58B value added