Business travel trends are shifting, moving away from traditional hotspots like New York City and Las Vegas in favor of more affordable and appealing locations. According to recent data, cities such as Tampa, Charlotte, and Orlando are gaining traction as desirable destinations for corporate travel.
Ariel Katen, a product director from the work-travel management platform Engine, noted that businesses are increasingly on the lookout for cost-effective options that still provide desirable amenities for their teams. Employers are now considering cities that offer lower hotel rates and better overall value when planning events.
A study from Deloitte in 2024 revealed that, while companies planned to boost their corporate travel budgets, many are also concerned about rising travel costs. As a result, there’s a focus on seeking out locations that provide lower costs without compromising on quality.
Here are five cities that are becoming popular for business travel:
Charlotte, NC
Charlotte saw a 9% increase in business travel in the latter half of 2024. A report by FCM Travel highlighted its rising demand, thanks to a modest year-over-year increase in hotel prices.
Orlando, FL
Known for its theme parks, Orlando also caters well to business travelers, boasting excellent infrastructure for conventions. FCM Travel reported an 11% increase in business travel to Orlando, making it the fastest-growing destination on their list.
Nashville, TN
Nashville is increasingly recognized as an emerging business hub, especially driven by its booming healthcare and technology sectors, with a greater than 8% rise in business travel noted in recent reports.
Denver, CO
Denver has become a popular choice for corporate travel, with Engine reporting a nearly 6% rise in hotel prices for business bookings. Its combination of amenities and scenic outdoor access make it a favorable location.
Tampa, FL
Another Florida city on the rise, Tampa has experienced a substantial 16% increase in hotel pricing year-over-year, indicating its growing appeal as a tech hub and business destination post-pandemic.
These trends suggest that while traditional business centers remain significant, companies are shifting their focus towards cities that offer both affordability and a range of amenities suitable for corporate travel.