Universal Highlights Epic Universe’s Role in Economic Growth and Job Creation

Epic Universe, Epic Impact: Universal’s New Park Powers Job Creation and Economic Growth Nationwide

With the opening of Epic Universe just around the corner on May 22, 2025, Universal Destinations and Experiences (UDX) is not just delivering next-level thrills—it’s fueling an economic engine with national reach. The most ambitious and technologically advanced theme park ever developed, Epic Universe will double the footprint of Universal Orlando Resort, setting the stage for a new era of innovation, tourism, and opportunity in Florida and across the United States.

Related: Universal Shares FIRST LOOK at Victoria Frankenstein Animatronic in Monsters Unchained Queue at Epic Universe

A Game-Changer for Florida and Beyond

The development of Epic Universe is transforming Central Florida into a weeklong vacation destination. With three immersive theme parks, one water park, 11 hotels (including three new ones at Epic Universe), and a vibrant dining and entertainment district at CityWalk, the expansion positions Universal Orlando Resort as a premier global vacation hub.

And the ripple effects are massive. According to an economic analysis by UCF economist Dr. Sean Snaith, Epic Universe is generating:

• Thousands of new jobs, both on-site and across surrounding communities. For every 1,000 jobs created within the park, another 700 off-site jobs are stimulated in the Orlando area.
• $386 million in state and local taxes in its first year.
• $120 million in property taxes and $500 million in sales tax revenue.
• $230 million invested into public infrastructure improvements.
• $13 million in tourism development taxes from increased visitor traffic.

National Investments, Local Impact

From 2018 to 2024, Comcast NBCUniversal has invested more than $10 billion in Universal parks across California, Florida, Texas, and Nevada, solidifying UDX as one of the six core growth drivers for the company. Today, UDX supports over 45,000 jobs nationwide and works with thousands of suppliers, local businesses, and community organizations to drive long-term, sustainable growth.

In Florida alone, the Universal Orlando Foundation has contributed nearly $70 million in grants, donations, and programming between 2019 and 2023—supporting job training, skills development, and expanding access to opportunity across the region.

Universal Expands Across the U.S.

The excitement doesn’t stop in Orlando. UDX is pushing boundaries and expanding its parks business in bold new ways:

• Universal Horror Unleashed – Las Vegas (2025): A permanent, year-round horror experience bringing Universal’s iconic monsters and terrifying thrills to life in Sin City.
• Universal Kids Resort – Frisco, Texas (2026): A first-of-its-kind theme park designed specifically for families with young children. Featuring lands inspired by Shrek, Trolls, Minions, Gabby’s Dollhouse, SpongeBob SquarePants, and Jurassic World, this resort will also include a 300-room hotel integrated into the experience.
• Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift – Universal Studios Hollywood: The first high-speed outdoor roller coaster in the park’s history, bringing the Fast & Furious franchise to life in a bold new way.
• DreamWorks Land – Universal Studios Florida: Now open and delighting guests with attractions based on Kung Fu Panda, Trolls, and Shrek, this land adds even more family fun to the park.

Related: Epic Universe Delivers a Portal-Powered Masterpiece

A Universe of Opportunity

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a local business owner, or a job-seeker, Epic Universe represents more than just a new theme park—it’s a powerful catalyst for economic development and creative innovation. As UDX continues to invest in world-class destinations, it’s creating unforgettable experiences for guests and real opportunities for communities.