According to a report by the Crossville Chronicle, in 2024, Cumberland County outperformed Cookeville in tourism, generating over $212.4 million in revenue from visitors traveling more than 50 miles, compared to Cookeville’s $185 million, ranking Crossville 15th among Tennessee’s 95 counties for tourism revenue.

Tourism Director PJ Barnes attributes this success to effective data tracking via credit card information, capturing spending from visitors hailing from cities like Nashville, Chattanooga, and Knoxville. The tourism dollars significantly benefit the local economy by funding schools and the police department, saving each household approximately $776 annually in taxes, contributing to the county’s second-lowest effective property tax rate.

Additionally, tourism supports around 1,100 direct jobs at attractions like Cumberland Mountain State Park, golf courses, and Fairfield Glade amenities, while boosting local businesses and restaurants. Barnes credits word-of-mouth and repeat visitors for driving tourism, with a new social media initiative launched since his March appointment generating 650,000 views, further promoting Cumberland County as a top destination.