New York Poised to Overtake California as Top State for Movie and TV Production
California remains the largest state for film and television production spending, but New York is closing the gap quickly and could overtake it. The shift reflects a faster rebound in New York, supported by expanding studio facilities, a large crew base and access to filming locations across the Tri-State area.
In the third quarter, New York’s production spend rose 87 per cent to $1.61 billion, while California’s increased 17 per cent to $1.76 billion, leaving a difference of $147 million. New York is hosting a mix of long-running scripted series and new productions, while Georgia’s spending rose 32 per cent, helped by projects including *Superman: Man of Tomorrow*. ProdPro’s Alex LoVerde said the next figures and developments into 2027 will show whether New York can take the lead.
- New York’s production spending rose 87 per cent in the quarter.
- California still led, by $147 million.
- Georgia also rebounded, with spending up 32 per cent.
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Film and television production spending covers the money spent making programmes and films, including payments to crews and facilities. California has long been the leading state for this work, while New York is another major centre with studios, experienced workers and locations across the wider Tri-State area.
States compete to attract productions because filming can bring work and spending to local businesses. New York’s production industry has grown quickly, while Georgia is also expanding; how these centres develop will shape where projects are made and where production jobs are based.