WHITE PLAINS, NY (May 3, 2025) — Westchester County’s film and television industry generated a $924.2 million economic impact in 2024, according to a new report released by County Executive Ken Jenkins during the annual “Future of Film in Westchester” event, hosted by the Westchester County Office of Tourism and Film.
The report highlights a 51% increase in jobs supported by the industry, rising from 2,053 to 3,103, with 1,339 directly tied to production. Total wages reached $261.6 million, including $130.2 million in direct earnings. Production activity spanned 1,372 days across the county, signaling robust momentum. “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,” Jenkins said. “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.”
Despite industry challenges, including the 2023 Writers Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA strikes that halted production for over five months, Westchester rebounded strongly. Director of Westchester County Tourism & Film Natasha Caputo noted, “Our proactive approach, streamlined processes and strong partnerships with local businesses, government and communities make us a model for best practices in the industry.” The county collected $2.6 million in sales tax, $3.2 million in lodging-related taxes, and $1.8 million in permit and location fees.
Industry professionals praised Westchester’s appeal. Josh Levin, Vice President of the Northeast Region at the Motion Picture Association, said, “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.” Sean Meade, Westchester Hotel Association President and General Manager of the Cambria Hotel in White Plains, added, “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.”
Producer Thomas Kelly, known for “The Get Down” and “Blue Bloods,” stated, “Westchester isn’t just convenient—it’s creatively inspiring.” Jerry Kupfer, who worked on “30 Rock,” said, “Westchester offers an incredible range of locations that can double for so many places across America.” Executive producer Bill Carraro, who worked on “The Penguin,” called Westchester “the crown jewel of the region,” citing its diverse environments, from urban to rural settings, beaches, riverfronts, and proximity to New York City.
Recent productions filmed in Westchester include “The Equalizer,” “Elsbeth,” “FBI: Most Wanted,” “The Gilded Age,” “Law & Order,” “Poker Face,” “Power Book III: Raising Kanan,” “Severance,” “Your Friends & Neighbors,” and “Zero Day.” Caputo emphasized future growth, saying, “We saw a return to activity in 2024 and that gives us every reason to be optimistic.”
This article was drafted with the aid of Grok, an AI tool by xAI, under the direction and editing of Robert Cox to ensure accuracy and adherence to journalistic standards.