Recreational Boating Top Performing Sector
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) today released new annual economic data highlighting the continued strength and significant economic impact of outdoor recreation in 2024. According to the new BEA Outdoor Recreation Economic Statistics, nominal gross output for outdoor recreation totaled $1.3 trillion in 2024, marking slower but still increasing growth and demand. Of note is that Recreational Boating led all outdoor recreation sectors, generating $38.4 billion in current-dollar value added.
Key 2024 Data Highlights
- $1.3 Trillion in Economic Output
- 5.2 Million Jobs (3.2% of U.S. Employment)
- 2.4% of GDP
- 2.7% Growth Over 2023 Data
- State-level impact
The top five states in growth from 2023-2024 were Massachusetts (6.9%), Arizona (6.8%), Iowa (6.6%), Alaska (6.3%), and Nevada (6.1%), underscoring the diverse footprint of outdoor recreation across rural, suburban, and urban economies. State Offices of Outdoor Recreation continue to coordinate investments and initiatives that convert participation into local jobs and small-business revenue.
“Recreational boating continues to be a key part of America’s Outdoor Recreation Economy, and the new 2024 BEA data highlights Americans’ desire to be outside, get on the water, and enjoy their favorite pastimes,” said Matt Gruhn, president of the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas. “The success of the recreational boating industry is ultimately fueled by marine retailers who keep boaters on the water and are key for ensuring that we continue to grow participation in America’s Outdoor Recreation Economy. This economic impact underscores the importance of prioritizing policies that support marine retailers, fuel continued investments in conservation and ensure domestic marine manufacturers can remain strong to ensure the recreational boating industry stays a uniquely American sector.”
What do the numbers mean for the industry?
- This year’s data reflects macro headwinds: inflation, interest rates, business uncertainty, and shifting consumer behavior in post-COVID recovery.
- Demand is still strong — participation remains high — but affordability may be a barrier.
- The industry has absorbed inflation as long as it can; margins are tight.
- Still, since 2012 outdoor recreation has grown 43.3% in real terms and 84.2% in nominal terms.
- Segment variability matters: manufacturing-heavy segments (e.g., RVing, boating) were slightly lower, while hunting, snowmobiling and tent camping showed resilience and some growth—a nuanced picture that matches what businesses are feeling across the country.
Looking Ahead: Policy Priorities
While the industry remains strong and a major contributor to national and local economies, ORR and its members urge policymakers to:
- Reauthorize and strengthen the Legacy Restoration Fund to modernize recreation infrastructure and accelerate high-value projects nationwide
- Fully implement the bipartisan EXPLORE Act to expand access, innovation, and public-private partnerships
- Recognize outdoor recreation as essential infrastructure for public health and community wellbeing
- Preserve access to public lands and waters in perpetuity as a high-return national investment and a sustainable, appreciating asset on America’s balance sheet
- Fully fund the Recreational Trails Program to support diverse trail users and rural economies
- Reduce regulatory headwinds and increase certainty for outdoor recreation businesses
- Strengthen federal-state coordination, including State Offices of Outdoor Recreation
Industry Voices
Statement from Jess Turner, President of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR): “The new data tells a clear story: outdoor recreation is a $1.3 trillion economic powerhouse touching communities in every corner of the country—but growth has slowed. Americans continue to get outside in record numbers, yet purchasing has slowed. To keep this economic sector strong in 2026, we need action: invest in access, reduce friction in supply chains and permitting with stable business environments, and pass commonsense policies that support outdoor recreation infrastructure and public lands and waters. Outdoor recreation is a proven, sustainable asset on America’s balance sheet—one that contributes $350 million on federal lands and waters alone and smart investments now will compound returns for decades to come.”
“Fishing is one of the oldest gateways to the outdoors, said Glenn Hughes, President and CEO of American Sportfishing Association. Every year, over 57.7 million anglers traverse our waterways to make memories with friends and family while supporting the $230 billion recreational fishing industry. This BEA data confirms that outdoor recreation is deeply intertwined with America’s heritage, and its popularity continues to grow. We must continue working with lawmakers to protect public access, expand recreational opportunities, and safeguard our aquatic ecosystems to further strengthen our outdoor economy.”
Background
The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) releases statistics measuring the outdoor recreation economy for the nation, all 50 states, and the District of Columbia. This is the eighth consecutive year that the BEA has released government data on the outdoor recreation economy. Prior to 2017, the federal government did not measure the economic impact of outdoor recreation.
Additionally, the bipartisan Outdoor Recreation Jobs and Economic Impact Act (Public Law No: 114-249) was signed into law in 2016, which required the federal government to measure the sector’s impact on the economy to help inform policy makers and business leaders about the number of jobs created and consumer spending driven by outdoor recreation industries. The law also requires that the Commerce Department submit a comprehensive analysis to Congress capturing the outdoor recreation sector’s contribution to the economy. This annual data is vital to showing how the outdoor recreation industry has a significant impact on the national economy and job creation and contributes to the health and vitality of the nation.
About the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA)
The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas is the trusted catalyst for success in the marine retail industry. Dedicated to fueling dealer growth and strengthening the boating experience, MRAA delivers industry-leading insights, expert guidance and proven solutions that assist marine retailers in navigating challenges and seizing opportunities. Through education, advocacy and innovative resources, MRAA empowers dealers to thrive, and help drive a stronger more sustainable marine industry.
