Cactus League spring training is a cash cow for the state of Arizona, but how exactly how much does it bring in?
Two studies conducted by FMR Associates in Tucson last year found more than $544 million of the $809 million in economic impact results from out-of-staters. Year-round events and baseball team spending at the 10 Phoenix-area ballpark facilities and in the host communities make up the remaining $265 million.
The majority of the out-of-towners surveyed said spring training was the main reason for their visit to Arizona. More than half said they came from another state or country.
Gov. Doug Ducey said the numbers get stronger each season. Part of that $809 million figure covers the money made at Arizona hotels and restaurants.
According to a news release from The Cactus League Baseball Association, nearly 1.9 million fans attended Cactus League games in 2015, the most since the league was created in 1947.
