Pinellas County, Florida, has seen a remarkable recovery in its tourism sector, evidenced by the record-breaking $8.29 million in tourism tax revenue collected in January 2025. This figure is not only a sign of the resilience of the region’s tourism economy but also a clear indication that the destination is bouncing back stronger than anticipated after the devastation caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton just months earlier.
Despite the challenges presented by the hurricanes, which caused widespread damage to the region’s infrastructure and coastal communities, tourism is continuing to thrive in Pinellas County.The strong performance in January marks a major milestone in the county’s post-storm recovery efforts. According to local officials, the increase in tax revenues—particularly in key areas like St.
Petersburg and Clearwater—is proof that the region is well on its way to regaining its status as one of Florida’s top tourist destinations.Strong Recovery Across Pinellas County’s Key DestinationsIn the immediate aftermath of the hurricanes, which struck Pinellas County in late 2024, the tourism sector experienced a steep decline. In the weeks following the storms, the county’s tourism revenue dropped by as much as 30%, and many hotels and vacation rentals were either shut down or remained offline.
However, by January 2025, the region had rebounded, with St. Petersburg emerging as a particularly strong performer. The city’s bed tax revenue surged by 34% y.