Creative Economy

Artwork titled the “Door of Equality (La Puerta de Igualdad),” by Mexican artist Sebastian with the downtown skyline in the background.

Updates on San Antonio's Creative Industry

A recent economic impact study shows that the city's creative industry generated a total economic output of $5.18 billion in 2023. Key findings from the study include:

  • direct employment of 20,845 individuals in the creative sector.
  • a rebound in economic output from $3.93 billion in 2020 to $5.18 billion in 2023.
  • design & advertising leading as the top creative sector, contributing $1.32 billion to the local economy.

The study is by Economist Dr. Steve Nivin (Associate Professor of Economics and Chair of the Economics Department at St. Mary's University) and was commissioned by the City of San Antonio Department of Arts & Culture.

The study highlights the industry's resilience, showing a strong recovery following the challenges of 2020. Employment in the creative industry grew by 2.5% in 2023 from the previous year, with museums and collections experiencing the highest growth rate at 6.7%.

Beyond direct economic impacts, the study also shows the creative industry in San Antonio:

  • fosters entrepreneurship, with artists being 3.5 times more likely to be self-employed.
  • attracts and retains talent across various sectors–from performing and culinary arts to broadcast and graphic design.
  • enhances educational outcomes, contributing to a skilled workforce.

Resources

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