• Significant National Contribution: Foreign-born workers make up 31.2% of the entire U.S. hotel industry workforce, ranking it among the top sectors for its reliance on a global talent pool.
• Florida’s Diverse Hospitality Workforce: In Florida, 42.8% of hotel employees are foreign-born, one of the highest shares in the country and well above the national average.
• High Concentration in Essential Hospitality Roles: Foreign-born workers are most prevalent in key operational positions, accounting for a majority of dishwashers and nearly half of all housekeepers and food preparation staff nationwide.
• Major Tourism Hubs Show Highest Shares: Metropolitan areas with strong tourism industries, such as Miami, San Francisco, and New York City, show the highest percentages of foreign-born hotel staff, often exceeding 50%.

A new report from Luxury Link shines a bright light on the vibrant, multicultural workforce that powers the U.S. hotel industry. This fascinating analysis celebrates the immense contributions of foreign-born workers, who are integral to creating the world-class hospitality experiences that welcome travelers from across the globe. Nationally, more than 31% of all hotel employees are foreign-born, showcasing a rich tapestry of backgrounds and skills that strengthen the entire sector.

Here in Florida, the dynamic role of this global workforce is even more pronounced. A remarkable 42.8% of the state’s hotel employees are foreign-born, ranking Florida seventh in the nation for its diverse hospitality team. This incredible talent is the backbone of the industry, with a high concentration of dedicated individuals in essential roles that ensure every guest’s comfort and satisfaction.

Nationwide, foreign-born workers make up a majority of dishwashers and nearly half of all housekeepers and food preparation staff, proving that their hard work is fundamental to daily operations. In major tourism hubs like Miami, where over 65% of hotel staff is foreign-born, this spirit of global collaboration is on full display. This report beautifully illustrates how a diverse workforce is not just a statistic, but the very heart of what makes American hospitality so welcoming and successful.