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Tourism grows in Barcelona but loses ground in the economy to other sectors
Tourism remains a pillar in Barcelona, but its role in the local economy is changing. The latest data show that the sector has recovered jobs and activity after the pandemic, although its relative weight in the overall economy has decreased compared to other growing areas.
According to the Observatori d’Economia Urbana, 13.5% of jobs in the city are linked to tourism, a figure very close to that of 2019. However, the total number of workers has increased by 9%, reaching 164,000 people, reflecting the sector’s capacity for recovery.
In terms of PIB, tourism accounted for 12.8% in 2023, below the 14% recorded before the pandemic. Even so, the added value generated has grown by 11%, indicating that the sector continues to expand, albeit at a slower pace than other economic activities.
The city maintains a diversified economic structure. Sectors such as public administration, education, and healthcare carry more weight, while professional and scientific activities continue to gain prominence. This balance allows the impact of tourism to be distributed across different areas of the urban fabric.
The analysis also points to tourism productivity being comparable to that of other sectors, challenging the perception of low efficiency. In addition, Barcelona’s tourism model has its own characteristics that require specific management strategies.
With these figures, the challenge is to balance growth and quality of life. Barcelona aims to consolidate a model where tourism remains an economic driver without losing sight of sustainability and urban well-being.