Tourism Metrics Update
Bend’s tourism industry continues its strong pace with Transit Room Tax (TRT) collections, setting Year Over Year (YOY) records driven primarily by higher Average Daily Rates (ADR) and higher occupancy rates as we have rolled into the fall.
Both October and November occupancy rates have been significantly higher YOY with October posting 11.5 percent growth and November posting 13 percent growth. Although we don’t have November TRT numbers yet, we know that October TRT was up 8.1 percent YOY.
“The summer months have always been the most popular time to visit Bend, so we cut our summertime marketing to almost nothing about three years ago,” remarked Visit Bend Executive Director Kevney Dugan. “Instead, we’ve focused on bringing visitors during slower fall and winter months and emphasizing attractions like Bend’s culinary scene and arts and culture. We’re pleased to see that’s paying off, and hopefully creating a more sustainable balance for businesses who rely on tourism as well as locals who live and work here.”
Of the $3,726,341 collected in the first 4 months of the fiscal year, $2,188,443 was allocated to the City’s General Fund, $1,278,097 was allocated to tourism promotion, and $145,944 was allocated to Public Safety.
