By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Creative workers are leaving New York City as rent and living costs continue to rise.
Although the city remains a global cultural hub, many artists say they can no longer afford it.
In particular, soaring housing costs are driving professionals out of the arts sector.
After 20 years in television and film, makeup artist Noel Jacoboni plans to relocate.
She explained that she has been “priced out” of the city.
As a result, she is considering more affordable cities.
Report Shows Decline in Creative Jobs
According to the Center for an Urban Future, creative jobs have declined significantly.
Since 2019, employment in creative fields has dropped by 6.1 percent.
Notably, the pandemic hit artists harder than most workers.
Eli Dvorkin, an author of the report, highlighted rising financial pressure.
He said that costs have increased faster than incomes.
Therefore, many creatives are struggling to survive in New York.
Income Gap Widens for Creative Professionals
Currently, about 326,000 people work in New York’s creative sector.
However, many are relocating to cities like Miami, Dallas, and Nashville.
These cities offer lower rents and better affordability.
Importantly, creative workers earn 23 percent less than the national average.
A decade ago, the gap stood at 15 percent.
Meanwhile, inflation has remained high across the United States.
Over the past decade, median rent in New York rose by 42 percent.
In contrast, creative salaries increased by just 25 percent.
Citywide wages, however, grew by 44 percent during the same period.
Film, Advertising and Design Sectors Decline
Since 2020, cinema and television jobs have fallen by 19.1 percent.
Similarly, advertising employment declined by 15.7 percent.
Design roles also dropped by 14.3 percent.
Consequently, many professionals are seeking work outside the city.
Cultural Institutions Face Financial Strain
More than 50 theaters, galleries, and music clubs have closed since 2020.
Rising rent, insurance, and salary costs have worsened the situation.
Even major institutions are feeling the pressure.
For instance, the Metropolitan Opera recently announced layoffs.
Likewise, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum has reduced staff.
On Broadway, only four musicals in six years made a profit.
Therefore, concerns about sustainability are increasing.
City Leaders Propose Solutions
Mayor Zohran Mamdani has prioritized affordability in his agenda.
Specifically, his administration aims to support creative workers.
Rafael Espinal, head of media and entertainment, stressed job security.
He emphasized expanding union jobs and training opportunities.
Additionally, leaders are considering more rent-controlled housing for artists.
Furthermore, the Center for an Urban Future proposed a citywide cultural festival.
Supporters believe it could revive interest and economic activity.
Future of New York’s Creative Capital at Risk
Although New York remains influential, challenges continue to mount.
If costs keep rising, more creatives may leave.
Ultimately, the city risks losing its cultural identity without urgent action.
