Steady Growth in Jobs, Revenue and Production Days Underscores County’s Top-Tier Status
Together with Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins, the Westchester County Office of Tourism and Film brought together film industry professionals, stakeholders, municipal leaders and related businesses for their signature annual gathering that this year focused on the “Future of Film in Westchester.” Jenkins released a new annual economic impact report at the event, showing the County’s film and television sector contributed $924.2 million to the local economy in 2024. The data highlights steady growth in production activity, employment and local revenue—reinforcing Westchester’s reputation as a sought-after destination for film and television production.
In 2024, total jobs supported by the County’s film and television industry rose by 51%, climbing from 2,053 to 3,103. Of those jobs, 1,339 were tied directly to production. Altogether, the industry generated $261.6 million in total wages, including $130.2 million in direct earnings. Production activity spanned 1,372 days across the County, signaling renewed and robust momentum.
Westchester County Ken Jenkins said: "Westchester County’s new economic impact report shows what we’ve long known—our film and television sector is not just thriving, it’s driving real economic growth and opportunities for our communities. With over $924 million contributed in 2024 alone, and a 51% increase in related industry jobs, Westchester has firmly established itself as a premier destination for production. We’re proud to provide the environment, the workforce and the commitment that keeps this industry growing—and we remain dedicated to building even greater opportunities for our residents and small businesses in the years ahead. The future of film in Westchester is just getting started."
Resilience Amid Industry Shifts
Despite the challenges stemming from the Writers Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA strikes that halted production for more than five months in 2023, Westchester’s film and television sector rebounded strongly in 2024. Nationally, the industry faced tighter production timelines, leaner budgets and heightened competition for filming locations, yet the data from this new impact report shows that Westchester’s proactive approach helped it remain competitive.
Director of Westchester County Tourism & Film Natasha Caputo said: “In 2024, Westchester continued to demonstrate why we’re a top-tier destination for film and television production. Our proactive approach, streamlined processes and strong partnerships with local businesses, government and communities make us a model for best practices in the industry. Producers know they can count on Westchester—not only for our diverse locations, but for the seamless support that helps bring their projects to life.”
Film production also generated meaningful local revenues, including $2.6 million in sales tax and $3.2 million in lodging-related sales and occupancy taxes. The County and its municipalities collected an additional $1.8 million in permit and location fees—reflecting both a high volume of filming and Westchester’s ongoing efforts to make its assets accessible and production-ready.
Josh Levin, Vice President, Northeast Region, Motion Picture Association, said: “Film, television, and streaming productions have a world of options. Westchester is a top choice because it has built a reputation for reliability, versatility, and strong local collaboration while providing a bevy of on-location options, top-notch soundstage infrastructure, and hundreds of vendors.”
Westchester Hotel Association President and General Manager of the Cambria Hotel in White Plains Sean Meade said: “Westchester’s hotels play a unique dual role in supporting the film industry—we’re not only a home base for cast and crew, but many of our properties also serve as versatile filming locations. Our teams understand the pace and demands of film work, and we’re proud to be a reliable resource that helps keep productions running smoothly here in Westchester.”
Thomas Kelly showrunner, screenwriter and producer said: “Westchester isn’t just convenient—it’s creatively inspiring. It’s also amazing how many different settings the County can stand in for. The locations are rich, the support is strong, and the working experience is always top-notch.” Kelly has worked on high-profile series including “The Get Down” (Netflix) and “Blue Bloods” (CBS), among others.
Producer and production manager Jerry Kupfer, known for his work on “30 Rock” (NBC), where he produced the pilot and more than 100 episodes, said: “Westchester offers an incredible range of locations that can double for so many places across America—from suburban neighborhoods to historic cityscapes. The support from local communities has grown tremendously, and with its versatility and proximity to New York City, the County is well-positioned to attract even more productions.”
Bill Carraro award-winning executive producer, producer, and production manager said: “I have had the privilege to produce projects all over the world and continue to find New York to be a premier destination, and as we found on “THE PENGUIN,” and Westchester County is the crown jewel of the region. Westchester was able to fill the void for essential locations in the telling of our story. There are few places with the diversity of environments that Westchester has to offer; from urban to rural locations, a broad range of suburban neighborhoods, beautiful beaches, stunning riverfront properties, lakes, woodlands, state and local parks, university campuses, government buildings, airports, in addition to production stages, all minutes from New York City. Westchester is a collaborative, production-friendly environment offering producers options that work logistically and creatively.”
A Destination of Choice
Westchester continues to distinguish itself with diverse filming locations, soundstage infrastructure, hundreds of local vendors, and a collaborative, production-friendly environment
Recent award-winning and popular productions filmed in Westchester include:
- “The Equalizer” (CBS)
- “Elsbeth” (CBS)
- “FBI: Most Wanted” (CBS)
- “The Gilded Age” (HBO)
- “Law & Order” (NBC)
- “Poker Face” (Peacock)
- “Power Book III: Raising Kanan” (Starz)
- “Severance” (Apple TV+)
- “Your Friends & Neighbors” (Apple TV+)
- “Zero Day” (Netflix)
Investing in Long-Term Growth
As production levels stabilize, Westchester is building on its success by continuing to invest in workforce initiatives, expanding film infrastructure and deepening engagement with industry decision-makers.
Caputo said: “We saw a return to activity in 2024 and that gives us every reason to be optimistic. From streamlining permitting to municipal coordination we have laid the groundwork in Westchester for long-term success—that has helped us retain a leading position in the region—and we’re committed to continue to adapt and grow as the industry evolves.”
About Westchester County Tourism & Film
Westchester County Tourism & Film is the official destination marketing organization of Westchester County, N.Y. Its mission is to generate economic benefits for the County by enhancing and promoting its image as a premier Hudson Valley business and leisure destination. Encompassing big cities, small towns, farms, and vast expanses of natural beauty, Westchester is easily accessible by car, its own regional airport (HPN) and three major rail lines. Accommodation choices range from independent to internationally branded hotels and conference centers. Learn more at visitwestchesterny.com and connect on Facebook, X and Instagram.