Recreation Counties Attracting New Residents and Higher Incomes
A 2019 report by Headwaters Economics evaluating the role recreation plays in attracting new residents and income to communities.
Organization
Headwaters Economics
Publication Date
2019
Location
National or Global
Topic
Economic Impact
Rural Communities
Workforce
Activity
Bicycling
Birding/Wildlife viewing
Camping
Climbing
Equestrian
Fishing
Hiking/Running
Hunting
Motorized sports (boat, snowmobile, ATV, etc.)
Paddling
Winter sports (downhill, Nordic, tube, snowshoe, snowmobile)
Related Resources
2020 Wisconsin Office of Outdoor Recreation
Outdoor Recreation: A Top Driver of Wisconsin's Economy
The first comprehensive report on the economic impact of Wisconsin’s outdoor recreation industry detailing the critical contributions of the multi-billion industry.
2014 University of Madison - Madison Extension
The Economic Impacts of Active Silent Sports Enthusiasts
The University of Wisconsin-Madison/Extension Department of Urban and Regional Planning found that on average, the active silent sports enthusiasts reported spending about $468 per trip with about $260 locally within Ashland, Bayfield and Sawyer counties.
2021 Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation
Wisconsin Tomorrow Report
A report reflecting on the impacts of COVID-19 to Wisconsin’s economy and outlining the five elements to economic well-being along with strategies for economic recovery.
Explore the Trends Shaping Outdoor Recreation
Outdoor Industry Association: 2025 Outdoor Participation Trends Report
Bureau of Economic Analysis: 2024 Economic Statistics for Wisconsin
Adventure Travel Trade Association: Travel Market Sizing and the New Adventure Traveler
KOA: 2025 Camping & Outdoor Hospitality Report
American Sportfishing Association: Economic Contributions of Recreational Fishing
Measure What Matters
