Posted: June 15, 2026
A new independent economic study found that Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens generated $225.4 million in total economic output for Ohio between 2018 and 2024, supporting an average of 373 jobs annually and delivering returns on public investment that exceed national benchmarks.
Conducted by SRC Evalmetrics in collaboration with the Ohio Chamber of Commerce Research Foundation, the report highlights the Conservatory’s growing role as both a cultural destination and an economic driver for Columbus and the state of Ohio.
Key findings from the study include:
- $225.4 million in total economic output statewide from 2018–2024
- $35.6 million in average annual economic output for the Columbus region
- $102.4 million in labor income for Ohio workers
- 373 jobs supported annually on average
- $3.50 returned in total economic value for every public dollar invested
- $10.17 generated in Columbus-specific economic output for every dollar of City of Columbus operating support
The study also projects major future growth through the Conservatory’s North Star Master Plan, estimating annual economic output could reach between $94 million and $119 million by 2030 while supporting more than 900 jobs.
Beyond economic impact, the Conservatory has expanded access to the community by increasing free and reduced-price admission from 2% of attendance in 2017 to 25% in 2024.
The report identifies tourism growth as a key opportunity, noting that each additional percentage point of out-of-state visitors could generate roughly $1 million in annual economic output and support approximately 17 new regional jobs.
