Halifax Tourism Sector Shows Strong Growth as Hotel Demand Surges
New data released by Discover Halifax at its second annual Tourism Forum reveals significant growth in the city's tourism sector, with average hotel occupancy reaching 77 per cent and international visitors contributing disproportionately to spending.
Discover Halifax released new insights into the city's tourism market during its second annual Tourism Forum, highlighting significant and sustained growth in the sector over the past several years. Clare Tidby, interim president and CEO of Discover Halifax, presented data showing that average hotel occupancy in Halifax reached 77 per cent, with an average daily room rate of $229.
Demand for accommodations was high enough that Halifax recorded 90 per cent occupancy or higher on 90 nights in 2026. This level of demand indicates a potential need for more accommodations in the city.
In 2025, 92 per cent of overnight visitors to Halifax came from within Canada. Of those Canadian overnight visitors, 55 per cent were travelling within Atlantic Canada. While domestic travellers make up the vast majority of visits, international visitors contribute disproportionately to visitor spending compared to their share of total visitors. Visitors from the United States accounted for about four per cent of visitation but contributed 19 per cent of visitor spending. Similarly, European visitors represented four per cent of visitors but contributed 20 per cent of visitor spending.
Travel patterns vary by origin. Visitors from Ontario, Quebec, and international destinations are more likely to visit during summer and fall, while Atlantic Canadians visit year-round.
Local sentiment toward the industry has also strengthened. According to the data, 93 per cent of Halifax residents feel positively about tourism, representing a 14 per cent increase from 2023.