Facts & Research

In the challenging economy of 2009, the creative sector remained robust in Southern California. The creative economy continued to support one in six jobs in the region, generating an estimated $127 billion in sales revenues and $4.6 billion in state and local tax revenues. It held its place as one of the largest regional business sectors, and was, in fact, the second largest in Los Angeles County.

The creative economy is the market impact of businesses and individuals involved in producing cultural, artistic and design goods and services. It consists of creative professionals and enterprises that take powerful, original ideas and transform them into practical and often beautiful goods, or inspire us with their artistry.

Key Findings

• Art is one of the largest business sectors in the region and the second largest in Los Angeles County
• The art industry contributes 835,000 direct and indirect jobs – almost one in every six in Los Angeles County
• $113 billion in sales and receipts is generated by the art industry in Los Angeles County
• The art industry contributes $14 billion in Orange County
• Over $4.6 billion in state and local tax revenues is generated by the art industry in the region

Source: Otis College of Art and Design