Industry Supports 248 Jobs and Contributes $3.4 Million in Tax Revenue
The nonprofit arts and culture sector in West Hollywood generated $12.4 million in economic activity in 2022, according to the newly released Arts and Economic Prosperity 6 (AEP6) study by Americans for the Arts. This figure includes $4.9 million in spending by local nonprofit arts and culture organizations and an additional $7.5 million in event-related spending by audiences. This economic activity supported 248 jobs, provided $9.6 million in household income, and contributed nearly $3.4 million in local, state, and federal tax revenue.
The AEP6 study highlights the impact of a vibrant arts community on local economies. From May 2022 through May 2023, data was collected from 1,032 attendees at in-person performances, events, and activities in West Hollywood. The findings reveal that tourists from outside Los Angeles County spend an average of $85.76 per event, while local attendees spend $45.45 per event. The average attendee spends $51.20 per event, 33% higher than the national average, largely at local businesses such as restaurants, retail stores, and hotels.
Key figures from West Hollywood’s AEP6 study include:
- The nonprofit arts and culture industry generated $12.4 million in economic activity in 2022.
- Event-related spending by audiences totaled $7.5 million.
- The industry generated $3.4 million in local, state, and federal tax revenue.
- Arts and culture activities supported 248 jobs and provided $9.6 million in household income.
- 86.5% of respondents viewed the arts activity or venue as a “source of neighborhood pride.”
- 80.7% stated they would “feel a sense of loss” if the activity or venue were no longer available.
In comparison, the City of West Hollywood’s participation in the AEP study in 2012 revealed an average spending of $26.05 per person, excluding event admission costs.
Nationally, the AEP6 study shows that the nonprofit arts and culture sector is a $151.7 billion industry, supporting 2.6 million jobs and generating $29.1 billion in government revenue. The study surveyed 224,677 national audience members, finding that the typical arts attendee spends $38.46 per event, excluding ticket prices.
The AEP6 study establishes a new benchmark for economic and community impacts among arts attendees, including those at BIPOC and ALAANA organizations.
The City of West Hollywood’s Arts Division offers a wide range of programs such as Art on the Outside, Arts Grants, City Poet Laureate, Drag Laureate, Drag Story Hour, Free Theatre in the Parks, Human Rights Speakers Series, Library Exhibits, WeHo Pride Arts Festival, Summer Sounds + Winter Sounds, Urban Art, and WeHo Reads.
The full report, including a map of the 373 study regions and a two-page economic impact summary for each area, can be found at AEP6.AmericansForTheArts.org.
