The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Zoombezi Bay and Safari Golf Club pumped an estimated $612.6 million into Ohio's economy in 2025, supported nearly 4,703 jobs and generated $38.9 million in state and local tax revenue, according to an independent study released Aug. 10.
The findings from Silverlode Consulting, shared by the Columbus Zoo, position the Powell-area complex as one of central Ohio's largest economic engines, with ripple effects felt at hotels, restaurants and shops well beyond the zoo gates.
"When guests choose to visit one of our parks, they are creating memories with their families while also supporting businesses, jobs, and communities throughout Ohio," Columbus Zoo president and CEO Tom Schmid said.
2.2 million guests, 293,000 from out of state
The three attractions together drew more than 2.2 million visitors in 2025 from all 50 states and Washington, D.C. The Zoo alone welcomed 1.7 million guests, including roughly 233,000 from outside Ohio whose spending at central Ohio businesses totaled an estimated $88.2 million.
Across all three attractions, approximately 293,000 out-of-state visitors spent an estimated $102.5 million at area hotels, restaurants, gas stations and stores during their trips, 1808Delaware reported.
That spending stays local. A Powell Community Improvement Corporation market analysis found the Zoo drives an estimated 20–30% of demand at full-service restaurants, coffee shops and entertainment venues in the Powell area.
Jobs concentrated in the Columbus metro
Of the 4,703 Ohio jobs supported by the complex's operations, 99% were located within the Columbus metropolitan area. The activity supported 3,124 Ohio households and generated $194.9 million in labor income.
Ohio Chamber of Commerce president and CEO Steve Stivers called the Zoo "one of Ohio's premier destinations" and said the study reflects the organization's role in supporting employment and tourism statewide.
$22.8 million reinvested in park improvements
The Zoo complex invested $22.8 million in capital improvements during 2025, adding construction spending to its economic footprint. It also contributed more than $775,000 in complimentary admission, tours and experiences back to the community.
The Silverlode study used IMPLAN modeling to measure operational spending, capital investments and visitor spending across the year.
What's ahead at the Zoo
The economic study arrives as the Zoo plans major expansions. In June, the organization announced the John F. Wolfe Aquarium, a 100,000-square-foot facility funded by a $50 million gift from The Robert F. Wolfe and Edgar T. Wolfe Foundation.
The Zoo and Liberty Township also resolved a longstanding dispute over emergency services fees on Aug. 12, with the Zoo agreeing to pay $150,000 immediately and $115,000 annually through 2030 to support fire and EMS services.
The Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival runs Thursdays through Sundays, Aug. 20 through Oct. 25, from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. The separately ticketed event features more than 70 handcrafted lantern displays.
