Jobs and Dollars: How Restoration Benefits Coastal Economies
BIG RETURNS from Coastal Habitat Restoration
A newly released report from Restore America’s Estuaries sheds light on the critical role coastal restoration plays in supporting our nation’s economy. From job creation and housing to national defense and recreation, healthy estuaries are foundational to economic vitality and community resilience.
The United States’ coastal and estuarine regions are essential to the nation’s economic strength These ecosystems generate over half of the U.S. Gross Domestic Product, support more than 69 million jobs, and provide vital ecosystem services that reduce climate risk and support thriving communities. Coastal regions supply habitat for over 75% of commercial and 80–90% of recreational fish catches. They are responsible for 40% of U.S. employment and contribute over $214 billion annually through leisure and hospitality sectors.
- More than 189 million Americans visit the coast annually, supporting small businesses and local economies. Outdoor recreation reached a record $1.2 trillion in gross output in 2024, employing 5 million people. Boating and fishing were the largest recreational activities in the country, with a combined value of $36.8 billion.
- The marine economy contributed $476.2 billion to U.S. GDP in 2022 and continues to grow every year.
- In Louisiana, the seafood industry contributes $2.4 billion annually, and the energy sector supports 250,000 jobs.
High-Return Investment in Restoration
Restoration projects also drive localized job growth, improved infrastructure, and enhanced water quality.
- A 2022 economic assessment of the Chesapeake Bay watershed found: Every $1 invested in agricultural conservation practices returns an average of $1.75 in economic activity.
- In Pennsylvania, such practices support 3,457 jobs and generate $352.5 million annually.
- Virginia and Maryland see similar benefits, with $191.2 million and $41.2 million in impacts, respectively.
Rising Costs of Coastal Living – and Cost-Saving Conservation Investments
Rising coastal development has eliminated 250,000 acres of estuarine surface area in the past 35 years. However, wetland loss from 2001 to 2016 equated to $8,000 annually in damages per 2.5 football fields in developed areas. Private insurance companies are fleeing coastal states—Florida alone faces $580 billion in property risk and premium increases exceeding 274% in some areas.
In Pamlico Sound, flood protection benefits from wetland restoration range from $48.8 million to $219.8 million over 30 years, depending on flooding frequency and severity.
For more information on America’s estuaries economic impact, please visit our 2022 Economic Value of America’s Estuaries Report.
Media Contact: Brad Williamson
