Chicago Creative Sector Generates $50 Billion and 213,000 Jobs, Ranking Third-Largest Industry
Updated
Updated · Chicago Sun-Times · Jun 25
Chicago Creative Sector Generates $50 Billion and 213,000 Jobs, Ranking Third-Largest Industry
3 articles · Updated · Chicago Sun-Times · Jun 25
Summary
Arts Alliance Illinois said Chicago’s creative sector supports nearly 213,000 jobs and produces $50 billion in output, making it the city’s third-largest industry behind only healthcare and professional services.
The study found those jobs make up just over 11% of city employment, exceed education, retail and manufacturing, and generate another $0.38 in local activity for every $1 of output.
Annual tax revenue tied to the sector totals $5.7 billion, including $3.8 billion in federal taxes and $1.9 billion for state, county and local governments.
Arts leaders said the 2023-based figures are conservative but give advocates data to press for more funding as city and state arts support stays flat or falls and federal grant volatility grows.
Statewide, the report put Illinois’ creative economy at more than 734,000 jobs and over $148 billion in annual output, while noting average pay is skewed by high-earning media and tech roles.
As AI reshapes creative work, how will the economic value and job landscape of the arts sector change?
Amidst federal funding cuts, how can cities build sustainable local ecosystems to support their creative economies?
Chicago’s Creative Economy Generates $60 Billion Annually—New Study Calls for Equitable Support
Overview
In June 2026, Chicago's creative sector was officially recognized as a major economic engine with the release of a comprehensive economic impact study by Arts Alliance Illinois. This landmark report, made possible through a collaborative funding effort involving both private and public entities, aimed to firmly establish the arts and culture industry as a key economic force. The study engaged a global consulting company to ensure rigorous analysis, revealing specific figures for economic output, job creation, and tax revenue. These findings provide strong evidence of the sector’s substantial role in Chicago’s economy and support ongoing advocacy for increased investment.