August Tourist Development Tax Increases August 2021

Tourist Development Tax collection showed a 34.26% increase in South Walton for August 2021 compared with the previous year. Total collections for August 2021 were $7,402,439.72. When compared to pre-COVID collections (at 2% to eliminate issues of tax rate changes), August TDT collection was a 102.3% increase compared to August 2019.

The Tourist Development Tax, or bed tax, is a five percent tax collected on hotels, condos, and other short-term rentals south of Choctawhatchee Bay. It is the best way to gauge visitation and demand trends in South Walton. The revenue supports tourism marketing and beach operations efforts, including cleaning and maintaining beaches, lifeguards, destination improvements, and preservation initiatives.

Tourist Development Tax collection on short-term rental accommodations north of Choctawhatchee Bay totaled $25,293.29 for August 2021.

The Tourist Development Tax, or bed tax, is a two percent tax collected on hotels, condos, and other short-term rentals. It is the best way to gauge visitation and demand trends.