film productions to Oklahoma City, boosting the city’s presence in the film industry. Since its opening, over $124.8 million in direct film spending has been recorded in Oklahoma City. The report, “Oklahoma’s Film and TV Industry: State-Level Incentives, Growth Prospects & Economic Contribution 2025 Update,” which was partly commissioned by the Oklahoma City Film and Creative Industry Office and written by Mark Snead and Amy Jones of RegionTrack, reveals that Oklahoma’s film incentive program has greatly increased film spending in the state. The report notes that Oklahoma’s film incentives have contributed to economic growth. In fiscal year 2021, spending under the program rose dramatically, from $31.8 million in FY2020 to over $187 million. From FY2021 to FY2023, total incentivized spending reached $484 million, averaging $161.3 million per year. Oklahoma’s $30 million incentive program has moved the state from 26th to 18th among the 38 states with film incentives. Expanding the incentive to $80 million annually would rank the state 12th, just outside the top 10 incentive pools of $100 million or more.
From 2019 to 2023, Oklahoma ranked 6th in employment growth (56.2%), 4th in total compensation growth (169%), and 9th in annual compensation per worker (72.3%). Among the 38 states with film incentives, Oklahoma had the best overall performance in employment, compensation, and average wages. Nationally, the average compensation in the film industry rose to $120,300 per worker in 2024. Oklahoma experienced a 46% increase in film establishments, a 49% rise in employment, and a 135% surge in total wages. The state also recouped $41.6 million in tax revenue, recovering $0.90 for every dollar spent on incentives.
Congratulations to Chamber members on their recent Grand Openings! To see the schedule of upcoming Grand Openings or subscribe to the Grand Openings calendar, visit okcchamber.com/grandopenings. GRAND OPENINGS
Innovation District 316 NE 9th St. OKC, OK 73104
Dave & Busters 5501 N. May Ave. OKC, OK 73112
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