St. Pete-Clearwater Sets Single-Month Bed Tax Record!

St. Pete-Clearwater has hit a new milestone, setting a single-month bed tax record this past March with over $14.6 million collected. This impressive figure represents nearly an 8% increase from the same period last year, highlighting the area's growing appeal as a top travel destination.

For local businesses, this surge in tourism has been a boon. Jordan Khan, owner of Parlor Doughnuts in Clearwater, shared how the increased foot traffic has impacted his shop. “Sometimes you’re a little busy before 8, like on Sundays," said Khan. He and his team have adapted to the busier times following a record-breaking spring break. “We were lucky enough to open up right before spring break actually happened, so the very end of February. As we opened, we had about one week to kind of prepare and then after that we were jumping the gun and all in it.”

March's record-breaking bed tax collection underscores the vitality of the spring break season in the area. Brian Lowack, President & CEO of Visit St. Pete Clearwater, noted, “I think some folks skipped their trips in the winter here and they were ready to get down here for the springtime.”

The influx of bed tax revenue is not just a win for local businesses but also a significant boost for community projects. The funds will be channeled into initiatives like beach nourishment and enhancing local attractions, making the area even more enticing for future visitors. Lowack expressed optimism about the future, stating, “We do think it’s realistic to expect that we can beat last year’s summertime and, ultimately, put us over $100 million this year in bed tax collections.”

The diverse mix of visitors from around the world has been a highlight for Khan. “From like, literally, all over the world. That’s probably the coolest thing to me. Just all of those different cultures mixed in together.”

Looking ahead, more attractions and improved accessibility are on the horizon for St. Pete-Clearwater. This summer will see the launch of a direct flight from Mexico City, and this fall, St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport will add a non-stop flight to Amsterdam.

As the area continues to thrive, this record-setting month is a promising indicator of robust growth and a bright future for tourism in St. Pete-Clearwater.