What the numbers show
Arkansas's 2% state tourism tax brought in $26.596 million in 2025, compared with $26.66 million in 2024, a drop of 0.24%, according to Talk Business & Politics. June 2025 set a monthly record at $2.857 million.
Local hospitality taxes in the 17 cities the publication tracks totaled $72.028 million, down 1.37% from $73.028 million. Tourism employment moved the other way, averaging 132,310 jobs in 2025, up 2.5% from 2024.
Why 2024 was hard to match
Much of the early-2025 shortfall traces back to April 2024, when the total solar eclipse drew crowds across the state. April 2025 collections were $2.163 million, 13.5% below April 2024's $2.455 million.
Katie Beck Moore, CEO of the Arkansas Hospitality Association, told Talk Business & Politics the decline was expected given the eclipse.
Notes for Hot Springs hosts
- When you review last year, compare April against 2023 as well as 2024. A spring that looks soft next to eclipse week may be normal.
- Statewide collections were close to flat. If your own bookings fell sharply, look for a local cause first: pricing, reviews, photos, or new listings near you.
- Hot Springs levies a 3% Advertising and Promotion tax on lodging. Short-term rental owners register and remit through the A&P Commission's tax portal.
Sources
- Talk Business & Politics: State tourism sector growth moderates in 2025 (April 2026)
- Talk Business & Politics: 2% tourism tax revenue declines in early 2025
- Arkansas Business: Arkansas Tourism Tax Revenue Slips After Record 2024
- City of Hot Springs: Autonomous Commissions (3% A&P tax)
- Hot Springs A&P tax registration and payment
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