New York City attracted a record 52 million visitors in 2012, a rise of 2.1% over the previous year.
Visitors to the city generated an estimated $55.3 billion in economic impact to the city’s economy, with direct spending reaching $36.9 billion.
The Big Apple welcomed an estimated 41 million domestic visitors and 11 million international visitors.
New York City sold a record 29 million hotel room nights in the 12 months and generated a record $504 million in hotel tax revenue.
Mayor Michael Bloomberg said: “New York City continues to attract people from all around the world who want to experience our unique culture, food, parks, shopping, arts and energy.
“The tourism industry is thriving, creating thousands of jobs for New Yorkers at all rungs of the economic ladder. We are well on our way to achieving our new goal of 55 million visitors and $70 billion in economic impact by 2015.”
Deputy mayor for economic development Robert Steel added: “Tourism is the city’s fifth largest industry and continues to generate record numbers of visitors, spending, jobs and hotel tax revenue.
“Through NYC & Company’s strategic presence in 18 global markets, the city is able to attract visitors in markets where the potential for growth is strongest. We will continue to support a targeted approach and invest in markets that will yield the greatest return.”
NYC & Company chief executive George Fertitta said: “NYC & Company’s diversification in its international markets around the globe has led to a 18% growth in the city’s overseas market share – from 28 to 33%.
“For 2013, we have already identified markets with strong future potential and are ramping up our efforts to ensure New York City is their top of mind destination.”
New York City’s hotel inventory continues to expand with 91,500 rooms. The city’s hotel occupancy remains strong at 87%, the highest in the US.