Newly compiled data by the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners shows that the money coming in from occupancy taxes is on the rise in recent years.
The latest available data for occupancy taxes shows that the state of North Carolina brought in $326 million in a year – which is well above the pre-pandemic levels.
That number reflects the occupancy tax rate revenue for the fiscal year ending in June 30 of 2022, the last fiscal year for which there are complete vetted numbers.
That $326 million was generated by the 82 counties in the state that apply the occupancy tax – an extra charge placed on motel and hotel rooms and some simular accommodations.
In fiscal year 2020-2021, county occupancy taxes across the state raised just over $234 million. Two years before that, the revenue from the taxes hit a pre-pandemic high of $262 million.
Now that the pandemic is over and people are traveling more, the revenue from occupancy taxes looks to remain on an upward trajectory – especially since the NC General Assembly continues to add to the list of counties where travelers have to pay the added charge.
Last year, the General Assembly granted new occupancy taxing authority – at varying rates – to the following counties: Avery, Davidson, Iredell, Bertie, Stokes, Warren, Union and Wilkes.
Across the state, the proceeds from occupancy taxes go toward things like funding tourism development authorities, local chambers of commerce initiatives and funding programs for municipalities.
None of the state funding programs or for the basic needs of all the citizens. No matter who runs the govt, it is not in our interest. Provide necessities that the citizens cannot do; such as law enforcement, infrastructure, etc. Most everything else is a free lunch, for the voters who want the freebies.
Either you believe in the idea of community, or you don’t. Given that the majority of people receiving assistance are either disable, elderly or working in low wage jobs, I support community.
Who out of the 3 groups you named Chris receive any money from this tax revenue. Please explain
State subsidizes medicaid. Thanks for asking.
Is that figure adjusted for the higher inflation since the beginning of the scamdemic ?