International Traveler Spending in the U.S. Remains Below 2019 Level

Key Points

• International traveler spending in the U.S. remains below pre-pandemic levels, even worse when adjusted for inflation.
• Affordability issues, including higher costs and a strong dollar, have reduced the buying power of international visitors.
• Americans are spending more on travel abroad post-pandemic, with a notable increase in expenditures.

Summary

International traveler spending in the U.S. remains below pre-pandemic levels, with October 2023 seeing $10.7 billion spent compared to $11.6 billion in October 2019. When adjusted for inflation, the gap is even wider, with 2019 spending equating to $13.9 billion today. Higher costs and a strong dollar have limited international spending, while Americans are spending more on travel abroad, reaching $12.1 billion in October 2023 compared to $9.8 billion in October 2019.