The State of Live
The First Economic Research Study of the Independent Live Sector
The State of Live is the first comprehensive national economic research study examining independent live entertainment venues, festivals, promoters, and performing arts centers. Released on June 23, 2025, this groundbreaking report quantifies their significant economic contributions, explores challenges facing their sustainability, and provides invaluable data to drive advocacy and support.
STATE OF LIVE:
NATIONAL REPORT
Total Taxes Generated by Independent Live Stages
STATE OF LIVE: NATIONAL REPORT
Local Taxes: $3.14B • State Taxes: $4.17B • Federal Taxes: $12B
183.7M
TOTAL FANS SERVED
$153.1B
TOTAL Economic Output
62%
OF STAGES WERE
NOT PROFITABLE IN 2024
$51.7B
WAGES AND BENEFITS PAID
908,000
JOBS SUPPORTED
$86.2B
CONTRIBUTION TO U.S. GDP
31%
OF Expenses went
Directly To Artists
62%
OF STAGES HOST LOCAL
Artist Showcases
153,646
TOTAL EVENTS PRODUCED A YEAR
$10.62B
OFF-SITE TOURISM SPENDING
91%
VENUES OPERATING YEAR-ROUND
State of Live Underwriters
State of Live Data Partners
Support the Future of the Independent Live Sector
Donate to help us uncover the economic contributions and challenges of independent venues, performing arts centers, promoters, and festivals. Your contribution will help us arm the sector with the data and confidence it needs to thrive. As a fiscally sponsored project of the National Independent Venue Foundation (NIVF), donations are 100% tax-deductible.