For decades, Los Angeles has been the epicenter of production, but as challenges like rising costs, wildfires, and an uncertain future loom over Hollywood, other states are stepping up to claim their share of the spotlight. From Tyler Perry’s sprawling Atlanta studios to Mark Wahlberg’s recent ventures in Las Vegas, production hubs are emerging across the country. Among these, New York is making a particularly bold move to, once again, solidify its place as a leading destination for filmmakers.
New York has always been synonymous with storytelling. Its streets have served as the backdrop for countless iconic films and TV shows. But in recent years, the state has recognized that maintaining its status as a production powerhouse requires more than just its natural appeal. To compete with states like Georgia and New Jersey, which have aggressively courted productions with lucrative tax breaks, New York has doubled down on its own efforts.The state recently unveiled an expanded version of its Film Tax Credit program. This initiative, which was set to expire in 2025, has not only been extended but significantly enhanced. Productions can now benefit from a base credit of 30% on qualified expenses, with opportunities to push that figure up to 40% if they meet specific criteria. Moreover, the annual funding for the program has jumped from $420 million to $700 million—a clear signal that New York is serious about keeping productions within its borders.
While New York City remains a magnet for filmmakers, the state is also turning its attention upstate. The revamped tax credit program includes incentives specifically designed to attract productions outside the Metropolitan Commuter Transportation District (MCTD). Productions spending at least $100,000 in qualified costs in these regions can access a 30% credit, a move aimed at spreading economic benefits beyond the city. This strategy aligns with broader efforts to stimulate local economies in areas that traditionally haven’t seen much film activity.This focus on upstate development also extends to infrastructure. The state is encouraging investment in new production facilities in regions like Buffalo and Syracuse, creating long-term opportunities for growth. By fostering industry hubs outside of NYC, New York is ensuring that the benefits of film and television production are felt statewide.
The economic ripple effects of these initiatives are substantial. Film and television production isn’t just about cameras and actors—it drives entire ecosystems. Local businesses like restaurants, hotels, transportation services, and equipment rental companies all benefit when a production comes to town. A single feature film can inject hundreds of thousands—or even millions—of dollars into a local economy.Then there’s the job creation aspect. In New York alone, the film industry supports over 57,000 direct jobs and countless others indirectly. With enhanced incentives attracting more productions, this number is likely to grow significantly in the coming years.
New York isn’t alone in recognizing the value of film and television production as an economic driver. Across the U.S., states are competing fiercely for their piece of Hollywood’s business. New Jersey has introduced one of the most generous tax credit programs in the country, offering up to 39% in transferable credits with no cap per project. Georgia remains a juggernaut thanks to its uncapped program that has lured major blockbusters and TV series like Stranger Things and The Walking Dead. Even Nevada is stepping into the arena with plans to expand its tax credit program from $10 million annually to $95 million.This competition is reshaping the geography of production in America. Once concentrated in Los Angeles and New York City, filmmaking is now spreading across smaller cities and rural areas nationwide.
As we look ahead, it’s clear that this decentralization of film and television production will continue. States like New York are setting an example by not only offering financial incentives but also investing in infrastructure and workforce development to support long-term growth.For filmmakers and producers, this evolving landscape offers exciting opportunities but also new challenges. Navigating different state programs and understanding their unique requirements can be complex—but it’s worth it when productions find locations that fit their creative vision while maximizing their budgets.New York’s recent moves signal more than just an effort to stay competitive; they reflect a deep understanding of how storytelling shapes economies and communities alike. By embracing this moment of change with ambition and foresight, New York isn’t just keeping up—it’s setting a new standard for what it means to be a global hub for film and television production.
In recent years, the film and television production industry has been undergoing a significant transformation, with various states vying to attract major studios and productions away from traditional hubs like Los Angeles. This shift has been driven by a combination of factors, including generous tax incentives, state-of-the-art facilities, and a growing pool of local talent. As we enter 2025, this trend shows no signs of slowing down, with states like New York leading the charge in attracting and retaining production companies.