SANTA FE, N.M. — Outdoor recreation continues to serve as a significant economic engine for New Mexico, contributing $3.6 billion to the state’s economy and supporting more than 31,000 jobs in 2024, according to newly released data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA).
The sector accounted for 2.5% of New Mexico’s gross domestic product (GDP) and supported 31,454 jobs statewide. Key economic drivers include RVing, boating and fishing, and snow-based activities, while recreational flying recorded the fastest growth, expanding 12% year over year.
“New Mexico’s unique natural assets — from vast public lands to a strong network of outdoor businesses — position the state to remain competitive in this growing industry,” said Rob Black, Cabinet Secretary of the New Mexico Economic Development Department. “Outdoor recreation not only supports job creation and economic opportunity, but also enhances quality of life for residents and strengthens the visitor experience.”
Nationally, the outdoor recreation economy supported 5.2 million jobs in 2024, representing 3.2% of total U.S. employment. The sector contributed 2.4% to U.S. GDP and generated more than $1.3 trillion in economic output, surpassing industries such as farming, mining, and utilities.
New Mexico has strategically prioritized outdoor recreation as a key growth sector since 2019, when Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham established the state’s Outdoor Recreation Division within the Economic Development Department. Since its creation, the division has invested $33.9 million in trail development and outdoor infrastructure projects and awarded $8.7 million through the Outdoor Equity Fund, providing outdoor access opportunities to more than 106,000 youth statewide.
“Outdoor recreation is deeply embedded in New Mexico’s identity and remains a powerful catalyst for economic growth,” said Karina Armijo, Director of the New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division. “With more than 31,000 jobs and $3.6 billion in economic impact, the industry is helping strengthen communities across the state. Continued investments in outdoor access, trails, and youth engagement will ensure broader participation while supporting local economies.”
Key findings from the 2024 BEA data include:
- Recreational flying, hunting/shooting/trapping, and climbing/hiking/tent camping were among the fastest-growing activities, increasing 12%, 5.3%, and 2.4% year over year, respectively.
- Since 2012, outdoor recreation’s contribution to New Mexico’s GDP has grown at a compound annual growth rate of 5.3%.
- Employment in the state’s outdoor recreation sector has increased by 10.5% since 2012.
The BEA has tracked the outdoor recreation economy nationwide since 2012, providing detailed insights into the sector’s economic contributions at both the state and national levels.
For more information about the BEA report:
- BEA news release: https://www.bea.gov/news/2026/outdoor-recreation-economic-statistics-us-and-states-2024
- Full report: https://www.bea.gov/sites/default/files/2026-03/ores0326.pdf
- Outdoor Recreation Roundtable news release: https://recreationroundtable.org/news/outdoor-recreation-industry-remains-an-economic-powerhouse-as-dept-of-commerce-reports-record-impact-on-u-s-economy
