Chatham County has 4th highest growth in tourism spending in NC, officials say

PITTSBORO, N.C. (WNCN) — Chatham County has the fourth-highest growth in tourism spending in North Carolina, officials said Wednesday.

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According to preliminary data from the North Carolina Department of Commerce and Visit North Carolina, Chatham County visitors spent 8.9% more in 2025 than in 2024.

Chatham County also had the highest tourism spending increase in central North Carolina, according to the data.

Officials said the largest increases were in Cherokee, Macon, and Richmond counties. Visitor spending went up by 1.3% overall in North Carolina.

“Chatham County has a remarkable story to tell, and the continued growth in visitor spending demonstrates that our destination marketing efforts are reaching travelers and encouraging them to experience all that our county has to offer,” Chatham County Manager Bryan Thompson said in a statement.

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“This success belongs to the many businesses, communities and partners who make Chatham County a destination worth visiting,” he continued in his statement. “Our Pittsboro-Siler City Convention & Visitors Bureau team remains committed to strategically marketing Chatham County, supporting tourism, film and sports development, and creating opportunities that bring visitor dollars to local businesses and communities.”

Pittsboro-Siler City Convention & Visitors Bureau Director Neha Shah said in a statement, “We are delighted to see a consistent increase in economic impact over the past five years, particularly in the post-pandemic period, as our county’s many assets continue to provide worthwhile and memorable experiences for our guests.

“Our visitor profile has remained consistent and we continue to focus on all the aspects of Chatham County that give travelers a reason to visit for the first time while also inspiring return trips,” Shah continued in her statement. “We enjoy creating itineraries for every kind of traveler and are fortunate to offer so many opportunities for exploration across nature, food and drink, wellness, agriculture, sports, culture, and more.

“Whether guests are traveling for business or leisure, staying for the day or overnight, we keep their needs and interests front of mind, offering experiences that appeal to a wide range of ages and budgets.”

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