Santa Barbara Joins New York City, White Plains, Toledo, Charleston, Houston, Tampa and Other US Cities Supercharge Hospitality Industry with Record Hotel Stays

Published on November 22, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

Santa Barbara has joined New York City, White Plains, Toledo, Charleston, Houston, Tampa, and other top U.S. cities in supercharging the hospitality industry with record hotel stays. As USA tourism surges, these cities are seeing unprecedented demand for hotel stays, making 2025 a landmark year for hotel bookings. Santa Barbara’s rise to prominence mirrors that of iconic cities like New York City and Charleston, which are also experiencing skyrocketing hotel stays. With hotel occupancy rates reaching new heights, cities like White Plains, Tampa, and Toledo are rapidly becoming key players in the hospitality boom. Read on to discover how these U.S. cities are reshaping the hospitality landscape!

Discover the U.S. Cities with the Most Hotel Stays in 2025

Hotel bookings in the U.S. are reaching new heights, and certain cities are seeing an incredible surge in demand. In 2025, some destinations are standing out by having hotel occupancy rates so high, it’s almost impossible to find a room. These cities are not just popular—they are packed with visitors eager to book their stays. Whether it’s for business, pleasure, or special events, these locations have hotels that are running at full capacity. In this article, we’ll uncover the cities in the U.S. where hotel stays are dominating the market in 2025. The competition is fierce for bookings—so don’t miss out on these travel hotspots!

Santa Barbara: Soaring to New Heights in 2025

Santa Barbara, California is a tourism hotspot that is constantly on the rise. If you’re looking to experience luxury, beachside beauty, and world-class attractions, Santa Barbara is where you need to be. With hotel occupancy rates in the 80% range for 2024, it’s clear that this California gem is a top choice for US travel. In fact, Santa Barbara saw a 3% increase in 2024, and as 2025 unfolds, it’s expected to hit new records. USA tourism in Santa Barbara has been experiencing unmatched growth, and it’s not hard to see why.

This city’s hotel stays are increasingly in high demand. Whether it’s the stunning coastline, vibrant culture, or growing number of events, Santa Barbara is attracting tourists like never before. It’s a perfect blend of luxury and relaxation, making it one of the best destinations for tourists in 2025. As USA tourism continues to rise, Santa Barbara is a prime example of a city where hotel stays are filling up faster than ever before. If you’re planning to visit, don’t wait – book your stay now before it’s too late.

Tampa: A Surprising Hotspot for USA Hotel Stays

Tampa, Florida, is quickly climbing the ranks of U.S. cities dominating hotel stays. With an astonishing occupancy rate of 86.4% in February 2025, Tampa is showing no signs of slowing down. The demand for hotel rooms in Tampa is so high that this city is becoming a serious contender in USA tourism. Whether it’s the warm weather, exciting events, or vibrant cultural scene, Tampa is becoming a must-visit destination for tourists across the U.S. and beyond.

In fact, USA hotel stays in Tampa are seeing year-over-year growth, with January 2025 occupancy reaching an impressive 80.3%. The city’s popularity is undeniable, with visitors flocking for its world-class attractions and thriving hospitality industry. Tampa’s hotels are expected to continue to fill up at a rapid pace in 2025, especially as events like the Gasparilla Pirate Festival draw in large crowds. USA tourism in Tampa is booming, making it one of the top cities for hotel stays. If you want to experience Tampa tourism in all its glory, don’t miss out – book your stay now!

New York City: The King of U.S. Hotel StaysNew York City is, without question, the undisputed champion of hotel bookings in the U.S. As 2025 unfolds, this global city remains a juggernaut in the hospitality sector, with occupancy rates reaching 86.6% by September 2025. The Big Apple continues to top the charts as a destination of choice for millions. What makes New York even more remarkable is the fact that the city maintains such a high occupancy rate amidst its never-ending supply of hotel rooms. The demand for hotel stays in New York is astronomical, from tourists wanting to see Broadway shows to business professionals flying in for conferences. The number of rooms booked is expected to stay high throughout the year, making it the prime city for hotel stays in 2025.But why is New York so special? Well, its massive cultural offerings, famous landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and Central Park, combined with an endless number of events, make it a magnet for travellers. Even with a booming short-term rental market, New York City’s hotels maintain a stronghold on the travel market, pushing occupancy rates to near-record levels. If you’re planning to visit New York in 2025, expect hotel bookings to be tight—and prices to soar.

White Plains: A Quiet Giant in Hotel Stays

While it may not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of USA tourism, White Plains, New York, is quietly making waves in the hotel industry. With an impressive 94% hotel occupancy rate, White Plains is proving that smaller cities are just as capable of attracting tourists as the big ones. While exact 2024 and 2025 stats are limited, the data shows that White Plains is growing in popularity as a destination for visitors. This city offers a unique blend of suburban charm with easy access to New York City, making it an ideal location for those looking to explore the area without the hustle and bustle of the big city.

As USA tourism continues to thrive, White Plains is becoming a strategic choice for travelers looking for a quieter, more affordable option with easy access to the exciting attractions of New York City. With its high occupancy rates, it’s clear that hotel stays in White Plains are becoming increasingly sought after. For those looking to experience the best of New York without the heavy crowds, White Plains offers a refreshing alternative. Book early, as rooms are disappearing fast in this growing tourism hub.

Seattle: A Rising Star in Hotel Stays

Seattle, often overshadowed by the likes of New York and Los Angeles, is making a name for itself in 2025 as one of the U.S. cities with the highest hotel stays. With an impressive 82.2% occupancy rate in major markets by August 2025, this Pacific Northwest gem has seen a huge increase in visitor demand. Seattle’s rise in the hotel-stay rankings is no accident—it’s a city on the up. Known for its tech industry, thriving arts scene, and proximity to the stunning natural beauty of the Pacific Ocean, Seattle has quickly become one of the top choices for travellers seeking a unique blend of urban and nature experiences.

What’s driving this surge in hotel stays? The booming tech industry, coupled with Seattle’s reputation for being a hub for innovation, has led to increased demand from business travellers and tech conferences. Furthermore, Seattle’s beautiful landscape, with mountains, forests, and water, attracts leisure tourists year-round. In fact, demand for hotel rooms is so high that visitors are often finding themselves scrambling to secure bookings. If you’re planning to visit Seattle in 2025, be prepared for limited availability, especially during the summer months.

Toledo: A Hidden Gem for Hotel Stays

Toledo, Ohio, might not be the first place you think of when considering USA tourism, but this city is experiencing a surge in popularity in 2025. With an occupancy rate of 66% for specific hotels like Homewood Suites and Hilton Garden Inn, Toledo is positioning itself as an up-and-coming destination in the U.S. Its affordability, combined with a growing number of events, has made Toledo a hidden gem for tourists looking for a budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality.

The hotel stays in Toledo are steadily growing, and the city is attracting both business and leisure travelers. While Toledo doesn’t boast the same high occupancy rates as some of the more famous U.S. cities, it’s an affordable alternative for those looking to explore the Midwest. USA tourism in Toledo is on the rise, and as more visitors discover the charm of this city, hotel rooms are filling up faster than ever. Toledo may not be the most glamorous destination, but it’s quickly becoming a popular choice for savvy travelers looking for something new.

Houston: Volume Over Percentage, But Still a Strong Contender

Houston may not be the first city that comes to mind when thinking about the highest percentage of hotel stays, but the sheer volume of rooms booked here in 2024 shows that it is definitely one of the busiest hotel markets. In 2024, the Houston metro area saw a massive 25 million hotel room nights booked, with an 8.2% increase over the previous year. This high volume of bookings signals a bustling tourism and business scene, even if Houston doesn’t top the charts in occupancy percentage like New York City or Seattle.

Houston’s appeal lies in its diverse offerings—from oil industry conferences and medical tourism to top-tier sports events and cultural festivals. With such an eclectic mix of attractions, Houston’s hotels remain in constant demand. However, due to an abundance of hotel rooms, its occupancy percentage doesn’t always hit the same highs as New York or Seattle. That being said, if you’re after a hotel in Houston in 2025, expect to book early or face the risk of missing out, especially during peak travel periods.

Chicago: The Underdog with Massive Hotel Revenue Growth

Chicago has always been a major hub for both business and leisure travel, and its hotel market in 2025 is expected to be stronger than ever. In fact, Chicago set a new record during the summer of 2025, booking over 3.5 million hotel rooms and generating an impressive $949 million in hotel revenue. While it may not be the top city in terms of occupancy percentage, Chicago’s ability to attract huge numbers of visitors is undeniable. In fact, Chicago is a hotbed of activity, hosting everything from world-renowned cultural events to international business conferences.

What makes Chicago stand out is its ability to cater to a wide range of visitors. Whether it’s the Millennium Park, Navy Pier, or the bustling business district, Chicago’s hotels cater to both tourists and professionals. The city’s diverse attractions, combined with a robust infrastructure for conventions, means that hotel stays are highly sought after, especially in the summer and during major events. If you’re looking for a city with high hotel stays in 2025, Chicago should definitely be on your radar.

Charleston: A Classic U.S. Destination for Hotel Stays

Charleston, South Carolina, is a city that needs no introduction. Known for its charming streets, historic landmarks, and Southern hospitality, Charleston continues to be one of the most popular destinations for USA tourism. With an impressive 81.7% occupancy rate during the busy April season, it’s clear that Charleston is a top contender for hotel stays in 2025. USA tourism in Charleston has been growing consistently, and the city is attracting more visitors every year.

Whether it’s the charming waterfront, the stunning plantations, or the rich history, Charleston offers a unique experience for all types of travelers. The hotel market in Charleston is booming, and USA hotel stays are reaching new heights. As USA tourism in Charleston continues to rise, you can expect to see more tourists flocking to this Southern gem in 2025. With its high hotel occupancy rates, Charleston is a city you won’t want to miss.

San Francisco: Steady Hotel Stays, But Not the Top Contender

San Francisco has long been a top destination for travellers. With its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and vibrant arts scene, the city sees a lot of foot traffic from tourists. However, in 2025, San Francisco’s hotel occupancy is projected at 65.2%, which is above the U.S. average but not quite in the same league as New York or Seattle. San Francisco’s hotel market remains solid, with demand being driven by the tech industry, conventions, and the city’s proximity to Silicon Valley.

Despite the higher-than-average occupancy rate, San Francisco’s availability of hotel rooms means it doesn’t face the same extreme booking pressures as New York. But don’t let that fool you—during peak tourist seasons like summer and major tech conferences, securing a hotel room in San Francisco can be tricky. If you’re visiting in 2025, it’s still a good idea to book well in advance.

New Orleans: High-Volume, High-Event, Low-Average

New Orleans has always been a city where the hotel industry thrives, especially during the famous Mardi Gras festival. In 2025, New Orleans sees some of the highest hotel bookings during events, especially during Mardi Gras, where hotel occupancy can hit 86% or even 97% during peak nights. However, for the rest of the year, the city struggles with a much lower average occupancy rate of 48.5%.

The issue for New Orleans lies in its extreme seasonality. While the city is a hotspot during Mardi Gras and other events, outside of these periods, hotel occupancy dips significantly. Still, for those visiting during major events, hotel rooms will be in extremely high demand, and prices can soar. If you’re lucky enough to secure a room during a major event in 2025, you’ll experience one of the most vibrant cities in America—but be prepared to face the crowd!

The U.S. hotel market in 2025 is shaping up to be one of high demand, especially in major cities like New York, Seattle, Houston, and Chicago. Whether you’re a business traveller, a tourist, or someone seeking an unforgettable experience, these cities are proving to be the top destinations for hotel stays. However, with hotel occupancy rates soaring and room availability dwindling, it’s more important than ever to book early.

In 2025, certain US cities are running out of rooms, and if you’re not quick to secure your stay, you might find yourself left out in the cold. So, be smart and book your hotel stay in advance to ensure you don’t miss out on the hottest destinations in the U.S.

Source: BTN Corporate Travel Index, Q4 2024 & Q4 2023