Where should you move to kickstart your film career?
LA or New York or Atlanta or Las Vegas or... abroad?!
This is one of the most commonly asked questions about working in the film/tv industry. But with the rise of tech, streaming, budget cuts, and shifting production hubs (to cheaper places) it mean the old rules about where to move for a film career aren’t as clear-cut anymore.
For years, people thought moving to LA was the way to break into Hollywood. And while spending time here eventually is helpful, specifically for networking, moving too soon, especially in today’s industry climate can not only be a money and energy suck.
So here’s some of my thoughts on the best places for specific jobs to move.
Stay home!!!!
Unless you want to blow about $1,000-$2,000 a month on rent every month (12,000-$24,000 per year!!) then you can stay home!!
Now more than ever screenwriters have the ability to live anywhere. During and after the pandemic, most pitches and generals moved to zooms - sure there are some meetings you want to make sure you can have in person (if the other party is even interested in that!) And I do think once you start gaining some traction, the big decision makers and execs will prioritize wanting to meet in person but when you’re starting out, that doesn’t need to be as much of a concern anymore!
No matter if you want to be a writer/director/actor/gaffer/DP/editor - there is so much access to FREE information online that will allow you to learn and practice/improve your craft without going broke or being stressed about how you’re gonna pay rent or to fix a flat tire this month. I also really can’t stress that the chances that your FIRST script is the one that will get you your manager/agent/staffing gig - are SLIM TO NONEEEE sadly. So, make sure you feel the drive to keep writing and keep creating.
My favorite learning tools are still the Scriptnotes podcast and reading scripts which you can do — for free ONLINE from anywhere!!! You can write in your own room, at your local coffee shop or even at a park.
THENNN once you write that stellar script that starts getting buzz (contests, referrals, etc) you can plan your move! The same goes for gaining that on-set experience, once you’ve either been cast in a few roles or decided which department you enjoy, it will make the process of moving a littles less scary.
If you want a more structured learning environment - check out training programs and theater companies in your area where you can gain experience in. What you’ll learn working behind the stages in theater can be easily translated into on set work on a tv/film if that’s what you’re interested in. Research colleges and offer to work for free on their student films. Find filmmaking groups in your area and ask to shadow the directors/etc.
Create and share your work online!!! I wrote about this a few weeks ago. There is no better time than right now to showcase your skills online. Producers, agents, managers are searching and looking for new talent this way.
And if you’re antsy to start networking right away…
Los Angeles – Still the Networking Capital
Despite the fact that productions overall are down by 22% in Los Angeles for Q1 and the WGA announced that writing jobs fell 42% post strike… LA as of May 2025, remains the heart of the business of the industry. It’s where the big agencies and management companies are, the production companies, some of the the StArZ + some of the biggest lots and shows but it’s definitely not the same.
If you’re interested in working in any of those worlds — agency, production companies even in marketing at the big studios/streamers — then I don’t think there’s anywhere better to find yourself. You’ll most likely have to work for free as an intern somewhere or in the mailroom of an agency before you make your way up. It’s not an easy path and breaking in is SO HARD but it’s definitely the best path if you’re interested in the business aspects. I did write a post about my recommendations for film industry resumes.
If you’re an actor, director, or crew member—at some point, you’ll likely need to be where the work is but with productions moving to cheaper cities, LA isn’t the only option anymore even with Newsom calling for an expansion of the California Film & Television Tax Credit Program from $330 million to $750 million per year.
New York City – Indie & Theater Hub
NYC is a great choice for actors (thanks to Broadway) and indie filmmakers who thrive in smaller, experimental spaces. I personally find playwrights to be stellar screenwriters as well so if you’re interested in writing plays - then follow that passion too, it could always lead you back. And best of all, your play could be your IP!!!
The TV and film industry is solid but smaller than LA’s, and film production is pricey here hence the small community. However, if you love the energy of the city and want to be part of a strong larger creative community, it’s a great option.
Important Notice for — New Jersey!
In August and September of 2024, New Jersey had more production than Los Angeles, New York, Atlanta, Louisiana, Texas and New Mexico.
Atlanta – The Production Powerhouse
Atlanta has become a major hub for film and TV thanks to its tax incentives. Big productions (Marvel, Stranger Things, Ozark) shoot here, and if you want to work as a crew member, this is one of the best cities to get started BUT productions are SLOWER across the board and a smaller pool means stiff competition.
However, for writers and actors, Atlanta still has limitations. Casting often happens elsewhere, and writing gigs are still concentrated in LA. It’s a great city for getting on set, but it may not be a long-term career hub for every role.
Chicago – Comedy, TV & Theater Scene
Chicago has a thriving TV industry (Chicago Fire, The Bear) but those jobs are often locked and loaded by the industry leaders there… not to say there isn’t a chance at a PA opportunity then climbing the ladder but just because there is slightly less competition doesn’t mean that the competition isn’t as tough!
The other benefit though for Chicago is the unmatched comedy scene (Second City, IO — SNL pipeline). If you’re into TV writing, acting, or improv, it’s a solid place to build experience before moving to LA or NY.
I took classes at Second City, IO and The Annoyance and they were absolutely phenomenal for making friends, testing the waters and learning a LOT! Chicago to me is the peak training ground. You can learn and refine your skills then move yourself to a bigger market like NYC or LA and really commit to your future career.
Abroad – London, Canada & Beyond
London has become a major film and TV hub, especially with massive studio expansions for productions like Star Wars, The Batman, and Bridgerton and the upcoming Harry Potter series.
If you have a way to work in the UK, it can be a great alternative to LA.
Canada (Vancouver, Toronto) is also strong for TV production, but getting a work visa can be tricky!!
Las Vegas / New Mexico – The Up-and-Coming Contenders
Believe it or not, Las Vegas and New Mexico are making a play for Hollywood’s business. Productions are starting to move here due to lower costs, tax incentives, and the ability to build massive studio spaces in the desert. It’s not a full-fledged industry hub yet, but give it a few years and if California doesn’t start taking it seriously, I can definitely see these becoming bigger players.
So... Where Should You Go?
Overall takeaways?
writer/director/actor — with the rise of the internet and the newfound interest for Hollywood’s in discovering talent through different channels, I’d save money and stay PUT! You can get to LA when it starts calling or when you feel like you’ve got a bit more experience.
assistant/exec/manager/agent/marketing/lawyer — anything business related, you’ll probably want to gravitate towards LA, potentially London if that’s easy for you.
Crew — Atlanta, Chicago, LA but productions are STILL SLOOOWWW and it’s super competitive so I wouldn’t move somewhere just at the CHANCE of getting on set.
If you’re into indie films or theater — NYC or London might be better.
If you’re a comedian — Chicago is where to get your reps in.
The industry is shifting, but one thing is clear: you don’t need to move to LA immediately. Focus on building your craft, saving money, and getting real experience first. That way, whenever you do make the move, you’ll be ready and as always stay delulu, with a plan!
I have felt SO BEHIND not living in LA for so long but it’s conversations like these that remind me it’s really not just a race to get there. There’s so much you can do from home that’ll make the eventual move benefit you so much more. Thank you, Tepper! 💗
My partner just got hired in Cirque in Vegas so we are making the move to hopefully make the most of vegas being an up and coming hub but LA being close enough to network!