A new economic impact study released today by the RV Industry Association continues to find the RV industry sector as a major driver of the American economy, “generating $159 billion in total annual economic output.”
The study, RVs Move America, identifies that the RV industry supports jobs that generate $46.4 billion in wages, and contributes $19.6 billion in taxes at the federal, state and local levels.
While core vehicle manufacturing has experienced plateauing shipment growth over recent years following a post-pandemic peak, the total economic impact has risen from $140 billion in 2022, primarily driven by broader value-chain activity and systemic inflation along the supplier network.
The data also confirms that while domestic manufacturing remains a critical component, the industry’s presence extends into multiple sectors of the economy.
Economic output is split across three primary segments: RV Manufacturers & Suppliers ($70 billion), RV Sales & Service ($38 billion) and RV Campgrounds & Travel ($50 billion). The continued strength of the downstream categories is driven by a steadily expanding base of 8.1 million RV-owning households nationwide, reflecting sustained growth and consumer enthusiasm for the RV lifestyle.
“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,” said Craig Kirby, President of the RV Industry Association. “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.”
Beyond direct industry activities, the RV sector’s business transactions generate an additional $40.9 billion in indirect output for regional suppliers and $45 billion in in induced economic activity as workers spend their earnings in their local communities. Major non-endemic sectors benefiting from this ripple effect include finance and real estate, transportation and business services.
The full results of the 2026 RVs Move America Economic Impact Study, including detailed breakdowns by state and congressional district, can be accessed here.
