A newly released economic impact study found that the recreational vehicle industry generates $159 billion in annual economic output across the United States, supporting more than 643,000 jobs and contributing billions of dollars in wages and tax revenue nationwide.
The 2026 RVs Move America Economic Impact Study reported that the industry supports jobs, provides $46.4 billion in wages and contributes $19.6 billion in total federal, state and local tax revenue.
The study found that the industry’s economic activity extends to every state and congressional district.
According to the report, the RV industry’s total economic output has increased from $140 billion in 2022 to $159 billion, despite manufacturing shipment growth leveling off in recent years following elevated demand during the post-pandemic period.
The study attributed the increase in economic impact primarily to broader activity throughout the industry’s value chain and inflation-related effects across supplier networks. The findings indicate that while vehicle manufacturing remains a key component of the sector, economic contributions are generated across multiple areas of the economy.
The report divided the industry’s economic output into three primary categories. RV manufacturers and suppliers accounted for $70 billion in economic output, while RV sales and service generated $38 billion.
RV campgrounds and travel activities contributed an additional $50 billion.
Researchers also noted that the industry continues to benefit from a growing base of RV owners. The study identified 8.1 million RV-owning households across the country, which it said has helped sustain demand for sales, service, campground use and travel-related spending.
“The latest economic impact study proves once again that the RV industry is a robust and enduring engine for the American economy, contributing $159 billion annually to the US economy,” Craig Kirby, president of the RV Industry Association (RVIA), said in a News and Insights report of the association on June 1.
Kirby said the industry’s economic influence continues to expand even as manufacturing activity returns to more typical levels following a period of historically strong demand.
“Even as manufacturing volumes normalize after a period of historic demand, our industry is contributing more to the economy than ever before. Our manufacturers, suppliers, dealers, and campgrounds, along with millions of RVers, continue to spend money and invest in our communities, directly supporting thousands of small businesses and local economies nationwide,” Kirby said.
Beyond direct industry activity, the study found that the RV sector generates an additional $40.9 billion in indirect economic output through supplier transactions.
It also creates $45 billion in induced economic activity as workers spend earnings in their local communities.
The report identified finance and real estate, transportation and business services among the sectors that benefit from the industry’s broader economic impact.
Detailed findings, including state-by-state and congressional district data, are available through the RVs Move America Economic Impact Study.