2026 Tri-State Film & Television Report

- The forecast for production volume is uncertain. Industry consolidation, exemplified by Paramount’s move to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery, and fiscal discipline have reduced content production volume nationally, but improved streaming profitability could lead to an uptick.

- The Tri-State New York production market is among the country’s most resilient. It was the only major U.S. market to see production starts recover to pre-2023 levels following the Hollywood labor disputes.

- Soundstage supply has expanded rapidly, turning a structural weakness into a competitive advantage. New York Tri-State’s soundstage inventory has grown 43% since 2020 with most of this expansion being delivered in the form of modern, purpose-built facilities that allow the region to capture more stage-based, high-value productions.

- The region’s generous incentive programs keep expanding. Between New York and New Jersey, over $1.2 billion in annual film incentives are being offered in 2026 in addition to an uncapped program in Connecticut.

- Talent depth remains an advantage, even as employment recovery lags. Motion picture employment stands at 86% of pre-pandemic levels, with Manhattan and the Hudson Valley leading the rebound; New Jersey lags but is poised for improvement as new studios come online in the coming years.