The Economic Impact of Parks and Recreation on Our Community
By: Jacob Oswald, Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks and Recreation: A Major Economic Force
A recent report by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), in partnership with the Center for Regional Analysis at George Mason University, highlights the economic power of local parks. In 2021 alone, parks and recreation departments across the U.S. contributed over $201 billion in economic activity and supported nearly 1.1 million jobs. These figures reflect the spending on park operations and capital improvements, which translate into jobs and local purchases that directly benefit our community.
But these numbers only tell part of the story. The ripple effects of parks go far beyond dollars and jobs. The presence of well-maintained parks increases the value of nearby homes, bolsters tourism, promotes health and wellness, and enhances environmental resiliency. All these elements collectively create a thriving community where people want to LIVE, WORK, and PLAY.
Direct and Indirect Economic Impacts
The direct impacts of parks are clear—whether it’s the jobs created by park maintenance and programming, or the spending generated by capital improvement projects. Every dollar invested in parks circulates through the local economy, benefiting small businesses, contractors, and service providers. Moreover, new parks and recreational facilities can spark further development and encourage investment in surrounding areas, as businesses and developers see the area’s potential for growth.
Beyond the numbers, parks have a profound indirect impact on economic development. High-quality parks and recreation spaces are a magnet for new residents and businesses. Nearly three in four U.S. adults say that access to nearby parks and open spaces is a key factor when deciding where to live. In today’s mobile economy, where people and businesses are no longer tied to one location, a community’s quality of life—boosted by vibrant parks—becomes a key selling point. This creates a virtuous cycle: more people and businesses moving into the area strengthens the tax base, allowing for further investments in parks, infrastructure, and services.
Attracting Employers and Strengthening the Tax Base
Parks and recreation spaces help position communities as desirable places to live, work, and play, which in turn attracts both workers and employers. Employers recognize the importance of recreational opportunities for their workforce—access to parks and trails enhances employee satisfaction, boosts health outcomes, and provides a range of benefits that improve productivity. This is why businesses often consider the availability of recreational amenities when deciding where to establish new offices or facilities.
By attracting new residents and businesses, parks directly contribute to the growth of our tax base, making it possible to reinvest in community services, public spaces, and amenities that further improve our town’s quality of life.
The Long-Term Payoff
The investment we make today in parks and recreation will pay dividends for years to come. By creating attractive public spaces, promoting healthy lifestyles, and stimulating economic development, we are laying the groundwork for sustained economic growth. High-quality parks and recreational amenities ensure that our community remains a vibrant, attractive place where people want to LIVE, WORK, and PLAY.
Parks and recreation are more than just fun and games—they are essential to building a prosperous future for all. Let’s continue to invest in our parks and recreation, recognizing their crucial role in driving economic success and improving the quality of life for everyone in our community.
