New economic analysis reveals film, television, and commercial production in 2023 supported 2,053 jobs and $198.2M in wages
A new report has shown that despite the industry-wide challenges in 2022 and 2023, film production in Westchester still yielded $2 billion in economic activity, 6,796 jobs and $656 million in wages during those two years.
Westchester County George Latimer said: “Westchester is a top-tier destination for film production thanks to our diverse locations, film-friendly communities and a skilled and supportive network of people and businesses. This report underscores the film industry’s vital role in driving our local economy, creating jobs and boosting tourism.”
The Westchester County Tourism & Film Department brought together over 130 film production professionals and representatives from Westchester’s film locations, municipalities, and local businesses that support the sector at the Hudson River Museum on April 16 to highlight Westchester’s resiliency and collaborative, film-friendly environment. Noting that despite the industry-wide impact of external factors such as the pandemic, two industry strikes (Writers Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA unions) which combined lasted more than seven months and increased competition from other regions vying for film business, the film sector was still able to contribute $1.9 million in sales tax, $950K in lodging-related revenue and over $1 million in permit and property rental fees in 2023 alone. While also adding 425 tourism jobs in Westchester as a result of the film industry.
Latimer added: "Despite these challenges, the film industry in Westchester demonstrates remarkable resilience and remains a cornerstone of our local economy. Film, television, and commercial production provides thousands of jobs for our residents, boosts local businesses and puts our stunning scenery on the global map.”
Westchester County Tourism & Film Director Natasha Caputo said: “Our efforts to attract new business have made an undeniable impact. Our collaborative approach, spanning the entire County, has proven inviting to filmmakers and visitors alike. What’s more, screen tourism, spurred by the recognition of our locations in today’s hottest shows, bolsters our economy and affirms that we are creating a welcoming, film-friendly environment.”
The film industry also creates a vibrant community in Westchester. A prime example is the Yonkers Film & Television Production Academy, a new career and technical school opening in September 2024. This collaboration between Yonkers Public Schools and Great Point Studios aims to prepare the next generation of artisans for employment in a variety of arts-based industries.
Westchester Hotel Association President and General Manager of the Cambria Hotel in White Plains Sean Meade said: “We always go the extra mile to ensure film crews have what they need, whether to provide a unique location for filming or to offer welcome respite after a long day of production. Embracing the industry has resulted in a steady revenue stream for the hospitality sector in Westchester.”
Recent award-winning and popular productions that filmed in Westchester in 2022 and 2023 included The Crowded Room (Apple TV+); FBI: Most Wanted (CBS); Feud: Capote vs. The Swans (FX, Hulu); The Gilded Age (HBO); The Girls on the Bus (HBO); Leave the World Behind (Netflix); Life and Beth (Hulu); Maestro (Netflix); Poker Face (Peacock); Succession (HBO); Severance (Apple TV+); and The White House Plumbers (HBO).
Meeting Industry Needs
Film business has steadily grown due in no small part to the services provided by Westchester County Tourism & Film. The film office provides location guidance, offers technical site visits, and facilitates the permit process. The support makes a big difference in choosing where to film, according to many industry professionals.
Director of the “The Gilded Age (HBO), Michael Engler said: “It’s all about location, location, location. [Westchester has] these magnificent homes and estates which bear the unmistakable imprint of the Gilded Age. We also shoot up there because of the space—land, big parking lots, parks, and pathways. People were extremely friendly and gracious. We all love shooting in Westchester.”
Latimer Added: “The economic impact report points to the foundational work we have done as a County to attract film business. The data shows that film professionals want to come here to access locations, talent, and economic advantages. Despite challenges, we have remained competitive and stayed in the game. We’ll continue to work together to see this sector grow.”
About Westchester County Tourism & Film
Westchester County Tourism & Film is the official destination marketing organization of Westchester County, N.Y. Its mission is to generate economic benefits for the County by enhancing and promoting its image as a premier Hudson Valley business and leisure destination. Encompassing big cities, small towns, farms, and vast expanses of natural beauty, Westchester is easily accessible by car, its own regional airport (HPN) and three major rail lines. Accommodation choices range from independent to internationally branded hotels and conference centers. Learn more at visitwestchesterny.com and connect on Facebook, X and Instagram.