There’s been big growth in the arts and culture in St. Louis City and County, and the economic impact proves the arts mean big business. Just how big?

• $561 million industry
• Supports 8,809 full-time equivalent jobs in arts and culture (includes full-time and part-time employment)
• 25% growth overall in economic activity since 2002
• 26% growth in employment in the arts since 2002

The Arts and Economic Prosperity III study was conducted by the Regional Arts Commission, the largest annual funder of the arts in St. Louis City and County, in partnership with Americans for the Arts, the nation’s leading nonprofit organization for advancing the arts in America.

The results are based on data collected from 148 nonprofit arts and culture organizations and from surveying audience members attending cultural events.

"The study comfirmed that the arts are a growth industry in St. Louis, adding jobs and revenue. We also know the arts are an important factor in attracting skilled and professional workers who want to live in a vibrant city. The arts have always inspired us and given us a strong cultural connection. Now we have proof that they provide beauty and strength."
Jill McGuire, Executive Director