A new economic study shows that Utah Lake visitors spent $74.3 million in trip expenses during 2024. This generated $9.2 million in state and local tax revenues and supported 823 jobs in Utah County. The economic study, commissioned by the Utah Lake Authority and conducted by Ernst &Young, illustrates the economic value of Utah Lake to the county.
“Utah Lake is an often invisible asset. But in reality, it makes significant contributions to our economy,” said ULA Executive Director Luke Peterson.
The study focused on 2024 and included online surveys, visitor volume counts, spending and economic impacts and tax impact. Tourism spending at Utah Lake includes visitors spending money at restaurants, hotels, campsites, recreation facilities and other rental and retail businesses in the region.
The results show that Utah Lake visitors support 823 jobs, $32.4 million in total labor income, $56.8 million in total GDP and $9.2 million in state and local tax revenues. It also showed that Utah Lake had 1.1 million visitor-days by people coming from outside of Utah County, including 800,000 that paid for lodging.
“Utah County’s great lake continues to be a powerful economic engine for the region. Beyond its natural beauty and recreational value, it drives jobs, supports local businesses, and strengthens the county’s economy,” said Curtis Blair, president and CEO of the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce. “This study underscores the vital role Utah Lake plays in enhancing the quality of life for both visitors and residents.”
Utah County Commissioner Skylar Beltran added, “It’s great to see the economic data confirm what we’ve known for years… Utah Lake is instrumental to our community. The lake provides ecological, recreational and economic benefits to both residents
and visitors. It’s exciting to see such strong numbers in the early years of the Utah Lake Authority and our partners’ vision. This is just the beginning.”