With a record-breaking visitor volume of 2.36 million people to Rutherford County, the economic impact has followed suit.

According to figures released by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development and the U.S. Travel Association, Rutherford County saw an increase of 4.6% in tourist spending from 2017 to 2018.

Tourism-related spending in Rutherford County in 2018 increased from $351.45 to $367.6 million, placing Rutherford County in the top 10 counties across the state for travel-related expenditures. The numbers reflect a significant increase for Rutherford County.

"The economic impact of tourism spending in Rutherford County continues to add fuel to a successful economy," said Destination Rutherford Chairman Bill Jones. "Tourism is an important part of our County’s formula for success, and we are thrilled that so many visitors are discovering Rutherford."

The money that tourists spend in Rutherford County at restaurants, hotels, retail stores, entertainment venues and transportation actually save local residents money. Without the money generated by tourism, every household in Rutherford County would pay more in state and local taxes every year.

"With the increasing number of entertainment venues and local businesses, our tourism expenditures continue to outpace 86 of 95 counties in Tennessee," said Rutherford County Convention and Visitors Bureau Chair Travis Emore. "The Convention and Visitors Bureau continues to exceed expectations and accommodate those visitors who want the benefits of small-town living with the amenities of a major metropolitan area."