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. Read the press release here.
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
183.7
MILLION
TOTAL FANS SERVED
$153.1
BILLION
TOTAL Economic Output
64%
908,000
JOBS SUPPORTED
OF STAGES WERE
NOT PROFITABLE IN 2024
$51.7
BILLION
WAGES AND BENEFITS PAID
31%
OF Expenses went
Directly To Artists
$86.2
BILLION
CONTRIBUTION TO U.S. GDP
62%
OF STAGES HOST LOCAL
Artist Showcases
153,646
91%
VENUES OPERATING YEAR-ROUND
TOTAL EVENTS PRODUCED A YEAR
$10.62
BILLION
OFF-SITE TOURISM SPENDING
STATE OF LIVE:
50+ STATE REPORTS
Building on the State of Live national effort, the state reports released on October 8, 2025 provide the first detailed economic impact studies for all 50 states and Washington, DC. Each report outlines the cultural and economic contributions of independent stages, including data on jobs, wages, tax revenue, and economic output, while also underscoring the challenges many face to remain profitable.
STATE OF LIVE: 50+ STATE REPORTS
State of Live Underwriters
State of Live Data Partners
NIVA Press Releases
NIVA Press Releases
State of Live News Articles
State of Live New Articles
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.