Yuma’s hotel boom brings jobs, growth and community impact
Samuel Kirk
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – Yuma is quickly becoming a hotspot for hospitality growth, outpacing the national average when it comes to hotel development, and it’s not just about tourism.
The number of hotels in the Yuma metro area has jumped more than 10% since 2019, with nearly 40 hotels now open for business. That number is expected to grow, according to local tourism officials.
“We look to the next couple years…we’re looking to see 12 new hotels open and possibly getting up to 4,968 rooms,” said Marcus Carney, Director of Visit Yuma. “It’s a lot of development that’s really exciting.”
Carney says the hospitality sector plays a critical role in Yuma’s local economy, employing a significant portion of the workforce.
“6.8% of all Yumans are hospitality workers. That’s 6,200 jobs in the hospitality sector in Yuma County,” Carney said. “That’s an important part of our economy. It’s an important part of our community…that’s a lot of people that are our neighbors and our friends.”
Since 2019, the area has seen more than 150 new hotel-related jobs created, and for those helping construct the new hotels, the boom has been a source of pride.
“I actually love it, ’cause I saw some of them from the ground up to the finish,” said Juan Gallegos, a local construction worker. “It took a while, but it’s nice. I like it.”
The growth isn’t just drawing tourists. It’s improving access for families and travelers passing through the region.
“Because they’re right off the interstate, it’s convenient for anyone going through…not just for military, for anybody,” said Yuma local David Gotchie. “And they aren’t small hotels either.”
With more development on the horizon, local leaders say Yuma’s hospitality industry is helping to build a stronger, more sustainable future, one that supports the community and fuels the local economy.