Charleston, SC Economic Development


The Visitor Industry

For more than a decade, Charleston has been named one of the top 10 travel destinations in the United States by Condé Nast Traveler "Reader's Choice Poll." A thriving visitor industry helps to sustain a world-class array of restaurants, shops and recreational and cultural amenities rarely found in mid-size metro areas.
  • Adds more than $5 billion to local economy each year
  • More than 5 million visitors in 2006
  • Provides tens of thousands of direct and indirect jobs
  • An estimated 5 million people visit the region each year
  • Benefits area businesses from client entertainment to employee recruitment
Beautifully preserved history, world-class golf and dining, and miles of unspoiled beaches attract millions of visitors to the Charleston area each year. Travelers come from around the world, with most international visitors arriving from the United Kingdom, Germany and Canada, according to the Charleston Metro Chamber's Center for Business Research. In fact, tourism is one of greater Charleston's top exports, with foreign currency adding to the local economy.

More information on Charleston attractions can be found in the Living Here section. Visit the Charleston Area Convention & Visitors Bureau for a complete online guide of visitor and convention information. 		related information