Sandy Springs visitor spending rose as visitor counts slipped in 2025, study finds

Visitors spent $434.9 million in Sandy Springs in 2025, up 1.4% from the previous year, according to a Tourism Economics study. Visitor volume fell 0.3%. The report attributes spending growth primarily to higher prices for visitor-related goods and services, rather than more visitors.

Food and beverage spending led the gains, rising 3.5% to $148.8 million. Lodging spending edged down 0.1% to $137.8 million as overnight visitor volume declined 0.8%. Food, beverage and lodging together accounted for about two-thirds of visitor spending.

Visit Sandy Springs partnered with Tourism Economics to analyze the 2025 visitor economy. City Council's Oct. 6, 2026, work-session agenda lists the study as a staff discussion item; the memo asks council to receive a report. The session is scheduled for 6 p.m.