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NY, NJ Gain on Hollywood Spending as CA Fights Back
15 Jul
Summary
- California's film production spending increased 5% year-over-year.
- New York saw a 57% surge in production spend, nearing $1.06 billion.
- Georgia experienced a 43% decline in production spending and filming.
As of the second quarter of 2026, California has experienced a modest 5% year-over-year increase in production spending and an 11% rise in filming activity, bucking recent declines. This resurgence is attributed to the state's enhanced incentive program. Alex LoVerde of ProdPro noted that this early data suggests California is regaining momentum in attracting productions.
However, New York and New Jersey are rapidly gaining ground. New York reported a substantial 57% surge in production spend, nearing $1.06 billion, fueled by expanded incentives. The state's soundstage inventory has grown by 43% since 2020, supporting its booming film industry.
New Jersey, while seeing a 11% dip in overall filming activity, experienced a significant 41% increase in production spend, reaching $387 million. This rise is driven by major studios like Netflix, Paramount, and Lionsgate establishing a strong presence through new soundstage developments and partnerships.
Conversely, states like Georgia, New Mexico, and Illinois have seen declines. Georgia, a former production hub, reported a 40% decrease in filming and a 43% drop in production spend, now standing very close to New Jersey in total spend.
