NYC Film Production Spending Jumps 57% in Q2 2026

New York City's film and television production sector is surging. Production spending climbed 57% year-over-year in the second quarter of 2026, reaching nearly $1.06 billion, while the number of projects shooting rose 19%, according to data reported by Variety.

The city has processed 4,311 filming permits so far in 2026, a 27% increase from last year. More than 600 projects filmed on public property this summer alone.

The turnaround follows a push by the city's entertainment office. In February 2026, Rafael Espinal took office as New York City's entertainment chief and found permits running at just 50% of pre-pandemic levels.

State budget amendments signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul in 2025 enhanced New York's tax incentives, and those changes helped keep major productions local. 'The Devil Wears Prada 2' stayed in New York because of the enhanced budget, supporting more than 1,400 local cast and crew members and engaging 550 local vendors.

According to Empire State Development, the film's 46-day shoot generated $67.9 million in total economic activity and $45.8 million in local wages.

The current boom marks a shift for a local industry that has faced pressure in recent years. Wildflower Studios opened in Astoria in 2024 amid shrinking studio budgets and the aftermath of twin labor strikes, while Doug Steiner first opened Brooklyn's Steiner Studios back in 2004.