Record-Breaking Tourism Recovery: Haywood County's Bright Days Ahead

In a remarkable turn of events, Haywood County has witnessed a significant surge in occupancy room tax collections during October and November 2025, marking the highest on record. This remarkable achievement comes as a positive sign of recovery for the county's tourism industry, which has bravely endured the impacts of Helene.

Revitalizing the Tourism Sector

The latest data from the Haywood County Tourism Development Authority (TDA) reveals occupancy room tax collections for overnight lodging in October and November 2025 exceeded not only last year's figures but also every other year on record. With a staggering 77% increase in October and a 20% rise in November compared to the previous year, the numbers suggest that visitors are returning to Haywood County in droves, energizing local businesses that rely heavily on fall tourism.

As Jim Owens, chair of the Haywood County TDA, shared in a recent board meeting, “That’s huge, after what we went through and the fear of people not coming. It’s very positive.” This sentiment reflects the collective relief and excitement within the community as they navigate the path to recovery and prosperity.

Understanding the Trends

Occupancy room tax collections serve as a crucial metric for gauging tourist traffic in the region, calculated from a 4% tax on every booked night at hotels and short-term rentals. The data reveals a consistent upward trend, indicating a revitalization of interest in Haywood County’s natural beauty and hospitality following the downturn caused by Helene.

Despite challenges, including the complexities of inflation affecting accommodation rates, the recent surge in revenue demonstrates a deeply rooted commitment among the community members to promote tourism. The TDA acknowledges that while inflationary pressures could skew some of the data, the overall growth is undeniable.

A Collaborative Effort

Corrina Ruffieux, the executive director of the TDA, expressed optimism about the continued growth trajectory: “Super positive,” she stated, emphasizing the collaborative efforts of the community working together to boost tourism.

As the TDA looks forward to reporting December's occupancy room tax data, there is a hope that this trend will not only sustain but thrive, reinforcing the resilience of Haywood County's tourism sector and enhancing its reputation as a prime destination.