Visitor Statistics Published by Visit Sarasota

A recent report by Downs & St. Germain Research, a market research firm based in Tallahassee, provides insights into the economic impact of lodging in Sarasota by comparing data from July of this year to that of July 2024.

The data reveals that hotel room and vacation rental rates have increased by more than $20 on average this year. Specifically, the revenue per available room (RevPAR) for hotels climbed by 17.6%, while vacation rentals saw an increase of nearly 8%.

However, this surge in rates coincides with a nearly 2% decrease in the average length of stay for visitors.

“Occupancy percentages are on the rise, largely due to a slight decrease in inventory,” explains Nancy-Jo Manney, membership director for the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce. “Most of our accommodations have returned, although some are still limited, contributing to higher occupancy rates.”

The report also notes an 8.1% decline in total economic impact, which Manney attributes to potential factors related to the upcoming 2024 storm season.

Despite this slight downturn, Visit Sarasota reports that the area welcomed nearly 144,000 visitors who either drove or flew in to explore the region.

Here are more fast facts from Visit Sarasota:

Visitors numbered 143,700, a decrease from 149,800 in 2024.

Visitor direct expenditures reached $132,395,200 compared to $141,012,900 in 2024.

Lodging occupancy was reported at 59.8%, slightly up from 58.8% in 2024.

The average room rate rose to $284.31, up from $260.48 in 2024.

Room nights sold reached 242,300, down from 247,100 in 2024.

Key Information

• Report Period: July 2023 compared to July 2024
• Average Rate Increase: Hotel and vacation rental rates increased by over $20
• RevPAR Increase: Hotels: 17.6%, Vacation Rentals: nearly 8%
• Occupancy Rate: 59.8% (up from 58.8% in 2024)
• Total Visitors: 143,700 (down from 149,800 in 2024)
• Visitor Expenditures: $132,395,200 (down from $141,012,900 in 2024)
• Average Room Rate: $284.31 (up from $260.48 in 2024)
• Room Nights Sold: 242,300 (down from 247,100 in 2024)