News Summary
Orange County has reached a historic milestone with Tourist Development Tax (TDT) collections totaling $33.7 million in June, showcasing a significant 10.3% increase from the previous year. This spike, attributed to the grand opening of Universal’s Epic Universe and major regional events, highlights a robust demand for lodging and an overall growth in tourism activity. The surge has bolstered reserves for future tourism infrastructure projects, reflecting optimism for ongoing tourism growth in the area.
Orange County Sees Record Tourist Development Tax Collections in June 2025
Orange County has hit an impressive milestone, with Tourist Development Tax (TDT) collections reaching a record $33.7 million in June 2025, thanks significantly to the grand opening of Universal’s Epic Universe on May 22, 2025. This represents a 10.3% increase from the previous year, marking the highest June collections on record.
The increase in TDT collections reflects a robust demand for lodging, as evidenced by a rise in Orlando’s hotel occupancy rate, which climbed to 73.5%—an increase of 1.5% from June 2024. The demand for hotel rooms surged by 3.4%, aligning with a broader trend of heightened tourism activity in the area.
In addition to hotel occupancy, the average daily hotel rate also saw significant growth, reaching $196.70 in June 2025, up 4.2% from $188.70 in June 2024. On the short-term rental front, demand in Orlando robustly increased by 18%, although it is noteworthy that the average daily rate for these rentals experienced a slight decline of 3%.
Factors Contributing to Tourism Spike
The boost in TDT collections is attributed not only to the opening of Epic Universe but also to popular major events in the region, such as the AAU Junior Volleyball National Championship, which drew significant crowds and contributed to the overall tourism numbers in June. The combination of these attractions and events has reinvigorated the region’s tourism landscape.
As a result of the hefty TDT collections, there has been a notable increase of $13.3 million directed towards the Renewal and Replacement (R&R) reserves, which have now reached a balance of $154.4 million. These funds are earmarked for future projects, including an expansion of the convention center and various stadium renovations, ensuring continued growth and modernization of Orange County’s tourism infrastructure.
Understanding the Tourist Development Tax
The Tourist Development Tax is a 6% tax applied to short-term lodging bookings within Orange County, designed primarily to fund tourism-related projects and facilities. The revenue generated from this tax is pivotal in enhancing the tourism experience and supporting necessary infrastructure improvements.
The remarkable performance in June follows a record month in May 2025, where TDT collections approached $30 million, reflecting a year-over-year increase of 5.7%. These figures underscore the resilience of Central Florida’s tourism industry, particularly in light of recent expansions in both hotel accommodations and entertainment attractions.
Historical Context of TDT Collections
Historically, Orange County’s TDT collections have demonstrated a robust upward trend, particularly during peak tourism periods. The region has seen significant investments in new hotels and attractions, which have underpinned the industry’s recovery and growth post-pandemic. The opening of Epic Universe is part of a larger strategy to enhance Orlando’s profile as a premier family vacation destination.
This latest growth in tourist tax collections not only positions Orange County strongly within Florida’s tourism sector but also indicates a healthy outlook for future economic development tied to tourism. As the demand for accommodations continues to rise, stakeholders in the community remain optimistic about sustained tourism growth, driven by ongoing investments and new attractions.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Thirteen Restaurants Closed in Central Florida for Health Violations
Central Florida Restaurants Closed Due to Health Violations
Surge in Tourist Development Tax Collections in Orange County
Central Florida Evaluates Weekend Expansion for SunRail Service
Polk County Officials Warn of Tourism Funding Crisis
Florida Legislature Finalizes Budget Amid Economic Concerns
Orlando’s Rise as a Haven for Millionaire Renters
GOP Lawmakers Abandon Tourist Tax Reform Proposal in Florida
Orange County Approves $5.5 Million in Cultural Grants
Orlando Announces Major Renovations for Airports with $72 Million Infrastructure Grants
Additional Resources
- My News 13: Orange County Tourist Development Tax Collections Surge 10.3% in June
- Google Search: Tourist Development Tax
- Orlando Sentinel: Epic Universe Drives Orange County Tourist Tax to Best June Ever
- Wikipedia: Tourism in Florida
- Click Orlando: Epic Impact – Orange County Tourist Tax Collections Hit Record for Month of May
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tourism
- Florida Politics: House Tax Amendment Calls for Big Changes to TDT Funding
- Google News: Orange County tourism 2025
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
