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Chicago City Council Raises Hotel Tax to Boost Tourism

3/20/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Chicago City Council approved raising the hotel room tax from 17.5% to 19% to fund traveler marketing programs.
The higher tax applies to hotels with more than 100 rooms in downtown Chicago.
Revenue will fund Choose Chicago, the city’s tourism marketing organization, and support bids for major events.
Mayor Brandon Johnson (Mayor of Chicago) praised the decision, citing potential boosts to tourism and economic growth despite social media reactions.

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Story summary

The Chicago City Council approved raising the hotel room tax from 17.5% to 19% to fund traveler marketing programs.
The higher tax applies to hotels with more than 100 rooms in downtown Chicago.
Revenue will fund Choose Chicago, the city’s tourism marketing organization, and support bids for major events.
Mayor Brandon Johnson (Mayor of Chicago) praised the decision, citing potential boosts to tourism and economic growth despite social media reactions.