According to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account (ORSA), outdoor recreation contributed $4.2 billion in value-add to the New Hampshire economy, accounting for 3.5 percent of New Hampshire GDP and more than 33,000 jobs in 2024.
This release last week shows that outdoor recreation in New Hampshire ranks 8th nationally for the state’s GDP impacts and is critical to helping attract younger individuals to the state.
“Outdoor recreation is a cornerstone of New Hampshire’s economy and quality of life,” said Department of Business and Economic Affairs (BEA) Commissioner Lucy Lange. “From the mountains and forests to our lakes and seacoast, the Granite State’s natural resources attract visitors year-round while supporting thousands of jobs and small businesses.”
The OSRA report indicates that 2024 has seen the largest recorded increase in New Hampshire’s outdoor recreation gross domestic product (GDP) at 3% compared to the previous year. Additionally, the industry has experienced steady growth in employment, with more than 1,300 new jobs created. The report also highlights increased participation in activities such as cycling, hunting, kayaking and canoeing, and snow sports. The highest economic contributors to the state’s outdoor recreation sector are snow activities, RVing, and hunting, respectively.
“Outdoor recreation contributes significantly to New Hampshire’s economy through the impact it has across a number of industries beyond just recreation,” said Department of Employment Security Economic and Labor Market Information Bureau Director Brian Gottlob. “Including manufacturing, retail trade, and lodging and dining, outdoor recreation contributes more than 33,000 private sector jobs.”
Nationally, outdoor recreation generated $696.7 billion in economic value in 2024, accounting for 2.4 percent of U.S. GDP, and supported more than 5.2 million jobs, according to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
The study noted that New Hampshire is one of the top 10 states where winter recreation is a key economic driver. Skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling and other activities add $250 million.
“Our outdoor recreation economy spans all four seasons and includes activities such as boating, fishing, hiking, camping, hunting, and biking,” said BEA Office of Outdoor Recreation Industry Development Director Janel Lawton. “These activities support outfitters, manufacturers, hospitality businesses, guides, and retailers across the state while attracting millions of visitors each year.”
In 2025, Governor Kelly Ayotte identified the outdoor recreation industry as one of nine target industries to grow and diversify New Hampshire’s economy and proclaimed June 10th as Outdoor Industry Day in New Hampshire. Since its inception in 2019, the Office of Outdoor Recreation Industry Development has facilitated public and private collaboration of businesses, employees, and communities that support year-round recreation across the Granite State.
About the New Hampshire Department of Business and Economic Affairs:
The Department of Business and Economic Affairs (BEA) is dedicated to enhancing the economic vitality of the State of New Hampshire while promoting it as a destination for domestic and international visitors. BEA oversees programs in economic development, international commerce, outdoor recreation industry development, planning and community development, travel and tourism, visitor services, and workforce development. For more information, visit
www.nheconomy.com.