Orange County Breaks Tourist Tax Revenue Records with Epic Universe’s Success, Here’s All You Need to Know

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Orange County, which has Orlando and its world famous theme parks, is experiencing an unparalleled increase in tourist tax revenue. The Tourist Development Tax (TDT) which is a tax on short-term lodging such as hotels and vacation rentals, has taken in revenue which is higher than record. According to Orange County Comptroller Phil Diamond, in August 2024, tax revenue increased 11% compared to August 2025 which marked the fourth consecutive month of record revenue since Universal’s Epic Universe opened in May 2025.

Constructed revenue indicates Epic Universe’s opening has led to an increase in tourism in the area. August TDT revenue increased by 2.48 million dollars which is expected to raise the record tourism revenue for the fiscal year which was 359.4 million dollars during the previous year. This was from October 2023 to September 2024. TDT revenue as of the end of September 2025 was 355.1 million dollars which is expected to increase with September 2025 revenue which will be announced in November.

Epic Universe’s Impact on Orange County’s Tourism
The major driver behind this surge in tourist tax revenue is Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe, the newest theme park addition to the Universal family. Epic Universe features five themed “lands” inspired by popular characters from video games, movies, and literature, including Super Nintendo, Harry Potter, How to Train Your Dragon, and classic movie monsters. Since its opening in May 2025, the park has attracted large crowds, contributing to increased hotel bookings, visitor spending, and overall tourism activity.

Comptroller Phil Diamond attributes the growth in tourist tax collections directly to the opening of Epic Universe. “The sustained momentum in tourism since the park’s debut has been remarkable,” Diamond said. Universal’s new addition to Orlando’s extensive theme park offerings has had a ripple effect across the local economy, including businesses, hotels, and other attractions, as visitors from around the world flock to experience the latest immersive entertainment destination.

The Financial Impact on Orange County’s Economy
The robust performance of the tourist tax revenue is reflective of the ongoing strength of Orlando’s tourism economy. Not only are more tourists coming to the region, but they are spending more on accommodations, dining, and attractions, further boosting local businesses and generating additional sales tax revenue for the area.

According to Visit Orlando, the region’s tourism marketing agency funded by TDT, the hotel occupancy rate for August 2025 rose to 63.9%, a 2.5% increase over the previous year. The average daily room rate also saw an uptick, rising from $160.36 in August 2024 to $164.07 in August 2025. This growth in both occupancy and rates signals a healthy tourism industry, where higher demand is allowing for more profitable operations across the hospitality sector.

Local businesses are benefitting from the influx of visitors, from restaurants and shopping venues to small attractions and service providers. The impact of Epic Universe, along with the continued popularity of other attractions like Walt Disney World, SeaWorld, and the International Drive corridor, helps keep the tourism economy humming year-round.

Conventions and Major Events Also Contributing to Growth
While theme parks have traditionally driven Orlando’s tourism numbers, the city is seeing an increasing boost from large conventions and events as well. The Orange County Convention Center, one of the largest convention centers in the United States, has seen a rise in bookings, with major gatherings contributing to increased hotel stays and visitor spending. Events such as the General Council of the Assemblies of God and the Florida Nursery, Growers & Landscape Association show have attracted thousands of attendees, further supporting the area’s tourism industry.

The Pentecostal Christian conference, which brought over 20,000 ministers, missionaries, and church leaders to Orlando for a four-day event, underscores the significance of non-leisure tourism. Such conventions generate substantial economic impact, from hotel bookings to dining and retail expenditures.

Strategic Investments in Local Infrastructure and Development
A portion of the funds generated by TDT is allocated for reinvestment into the area’s infrastructure, ensuring that Orange County remains competitive as a top tourist destination. In the coming months, the TDT revenue will be used to make initial debt service payments for major infrastructure projects, including a $27 million payment related to the $400 million renovation of Camping World Stadium. Additionally, $10 million will be allocated for the University of Central Florida’s (UCF) $90 million football stadium upgrade.

These projects are vital to maintaining and enhancing the region’s appeal for both tourists and residents. The improvements to the stadium and other facilities will not only support the local economy but also enhance the experience for visitors attending events, sporting games, and other entertainment offerings in the area.

Visitor Spending Driving Economic Gains
The tourism surge has also led to an increase in visitor spending, which directly benefits the local economy. A recent report commissioned by the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy revealed that $82 million in annual visitor spending is generated along the revitalized Detroit Riverfront area, demonstrating how urban parks and recreation areas can contribute to the broader tourism economy. This trend is similar in Orange County, where areas like Disney Springs, International Drive, and the newly developed Epic Universe contribute millions to the economy each year.

The TDT-funded marketing campaigns by Visit Orlando play a crucial role in attracting both domestic and international visitors, with continued investments into Orlando’s tourism infrastructure helping to maintain its position as a leading destination. The appeal of Orlando’s theme parks, convention centers, and unique attractions makes it an ongoing magnet for tourists from all over the world.

Looking Ahead: A Strong Future for Orange County Tourism
As Orlando continues to expand its tourism offerings, the region’s growth shows no signs of slowing down. Epic Universe has been a major success, with visitor numbers surpassing expectations, leading to record tourist tax collections. The city’s diversified tourism market, bolstered by a combination of theme parks, conventions, and cultural events, ensures that the future of Orange County tourism remains bright.

Increased investments in infrastructure, alongside strategic marketing initiatives, will continue to drive tourism to the area. With the future of travel and tourism continuing to evolve, Orange County is poised to remain a key player in the global tourism industry.

The Role of Epic Universe in Orange County’s Tourism Boom

The ongoing achievement of Universal’s Epic Universe demonstrates the growth of Orlando’s tourism industry. The TDT revenues which have reached an all-time high testify the growth in the economy, as the region’s economic resilience is visible through the increased hotel occupancy, expenditures of visitors, and large-scale events. Orange County will continue to be a top global tourism destination as it has a variety of attractions, events, and cultural offerings to countless visitors. Tourism will continue to be a key economic factor for Orange County.