Tourism Helps to Pick Up the Tab in Schoharie County

SCHOHARIE COUNTY — While some might think of Schoharie County as a quaint, quiet neighbor lacking the big 'hook' of nearby regions, recent data suggests otherwise. The latest tourism impact report commissioned by I Love New York reveals a surprising hero in the local Schoharie economy: the tourists themselves. Thanks to the $106 million spent by visitors in 2023, every household in the county enjoys a $997 tax break—proof that tourism here is more than meets the eye.

Schoharie County, known for its rolling hills, scenic farmland, and unspoiled landscapes, has proven to be a strong contender in New York's tourism scene. “Schoharie County, with its rich tapestry of natural beauty and cultural heritage, has always been a magnet for prosperity," said Cassandra Harrington, CEO of the Destination Marketing Corporation for Otsego and Schoharie Counties. "The recent data underscores the undeniable truth that our visitors are not just guests but invaluable investors, casting a positive ripple effect across our small businesses, tax base, and overall local economy. In the era of remote work, our rural charm is not just a sanctuary for tourists but also a beckoning call for potential future residents, offering the pristine air, water, and expansive open spaces that are becoming increasingly coveted."

Key Findings from the Recent Tourism Impact Report:

●      Tax Savings for Locals: Without tourism-generated state and local taxes, the average household in the county would have to pay an additional $997 to maintain the same level of government revenue.

●      Big Regional Spend: The Central New York region, including Schoharie County, saw $5 billion in direct tourism spending in 2023.

●      Local Economic Impact: Visitors spent $106 million within Schoharie County, with lodging and second homes accounting for $40 million and $33 million respectively, marking a 161% increase over 2019.

●      Sector Highlights: Food & beverage spending hit $19 million, retail and service stations $10 million, and recreation brought in $2 million.

●      Job Support: The tourism sector directly supported $25.2 million in labor income in Schoharie County.

Behind these impressive numbers is the work of the Destination Marketing Corporation (DMC), which uses data to make informed decisions on how to best allocate marketing resources. DMC’s strategic use of analytics helps pinpoint where marketing dollars will have the greatest impact, driving more visitors and boosting the local economy.

"In early 2023, we recognized the need for a comprehensive review of Schoharie County's tourism potential," said Josiah Brown, also known as "The New York Sherpa," who led an assessment by Famous Destination Marketing, Inc. "We discovered a huge opportunity for rebranding and repositioning Schoharie County to attract a broader audience, particularly in the post-pandemic landscape."

Moving forward, DMC's strategy includes corridor-driven marketing, leveraging micro-influencers, and generating engaging content over traditional advertising. "Tourism is more than just numbers; it's about advancing our rural communities," concluded Ms. Harrington. "We are on the cusp of transforming Schoharie County into a premier destination, bringing benefits not just for tourists but also enhancing the quality of life for our residents."

For more details on tourism strategies and the complete impact report, please contact Ryan Geraghty. To stay updated on tourism activities and initiatives, visit UpstateVacations.com or follow us on Facebook @VisitSchoharie and Instagram @visitschohariecounty.