ZANESVILLE, Ohio — Tourism continued to play a major role in Muskingum County’s economy in 2025, generating nearly $279 million in total economic activity, according to a newly released Tourism Economic Impact Report.
The report, prepared by Tourism Economics for TourismOhio and shared with Visit Zanesville, found that visitors spent approximately $170 million throughout Muskingum County last year.
That spending supported an estimated 3,333 local jobs while generating more than $85 million in wages and labor income.
Tourism also produced an estimated $37 million in tax revenue, including approximately $19 million in state and local taxes. Of that total, about $8 million came directly from local taxes, helping offset the cost of government services and providing an estimated $545 in tax relief for the average household.
Visit Zanesville Manager Jordin Harmer said the report demonstrates the significant impact tourism has on the county’s economy.
Harmer noted that visitors support a wide variety of local businesses, including restaurants, hotels, retail stores, attractions and entertainment venues, while also helping create and sustain local jobs.
According to the report, Muskingum County remains one of the strongest tourism economies in southeastern Ohio, ranking among the region’s leaders in tourism-related economic activity.
Harmer said continued investment in promoting the area’s attractions, outdoor recreation, events, arts and hospitality industry will help attract more visitors and strengthen the local economy in the years ahead.
Visit Zanesville, the county’s convention and visitors bureau, promotes Muskingum County as a destination for travelers from across Ohio and beyond.
