Facts & Figures

Boating is one of the leading drivers of the $1.1 trillion outdoor recreation economy, which contributes 2.2% of our nation’s GDP. (Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis)
Total recreational marine expenditures reached $59.3 billion (accessories, fuel, insurance, trips, etc.) in 2022 as more boaters spend time on the water. There was a similar trend in 2023 that will keep total expenditures in the $60 billion range.
Outdoor recreation supports 5 million American jobs with recreational boating and fishing being the second-largest conventional activity for the nation at $32.4 billion in current-dollar value added and is the largest conventional activity in 24 states and the District of Columbia.
The recreational boating industry supports more than 812,000 American jobs and 36,000 American businesses.
Recreational boating saw a 36% increase in annual economic activity from 2018’s $170 billion to $230 billion in 2023.
An estimated 85 million Americans go boating each year, more than 25% of the U.S. population.* (Source: USCG National Recreational Boating Participation Survey)
More than one million first-time boat buyers have entered the market.
Ninety-five percent of boats sold in the U.S. are made in the U.S.
Sixty-one percent of boat owners have an annual household income of $75,000 or less.
Ninety-five percent of boats on the water in the U.S. are less than 26 feet—boats that can be trailered by a vehicle to local waterways.