ALBANY, NY — Tourism in New York state has grown post-pandemic, but employment in tourism-related industries remains 4.3 percent below pre-pandemic levels, according to an analysis released by state comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli.

DiNapoli says policymakers should address regional disparities in the recovery.

The report found strong increases in domestic and international travelers to the state. In particular, visitors flocked to outdoor destinations, with attendance at state parks 9.1 percent higher in 2023 than in 2020.

Despite losing $10.9 billion during the pandemic, New York’s travel and tourism sector fully recovered by 2023, surpassing 2019 levels by $792 million.

In other key findings:

Domestic travel surged, with New Jersey residents accounting for 60 percent of visitors.

International travelers are still below pre-pandemic levels but increased by 7.4 million in 2023.

Agritourism, including wine tastings and farm experiences, has grown significantly.