NIVA Releases State-Level ‘State Of Live’ Reports

The National Independent Venue Association has released 51 state-level versions of its State of Live report, examining the economic contributions of independent venues in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

The individualized state reports expand on NIVA’s nationwide State of Live report, issued in June 2025, which claimed independent venues generated $153.1 billion in total economic output in 2024, contributed $86.2 billion directly to U.S. GDP, supported more than 907,000 jobs, and paid over $51.7 billion in wages and benefits.

“Every community has a story to tell about how independent venues power their local economy and culture,” said Stephen Parker, Executive Director of NIVA. “These reports reaffirm that state and local elected officials have significant reasons to frequently tout the impact of these small businesses and non-profits on their communities, do everything they can to protect them, and ensure they have a seat at the table during policymaking.”

The national report also highlighted struggles faced by indie venues, with 64% reporting unprofitability in 2024. The state studies found that in two states — New York and Ohio — more than four of every five independent venues reported unprofitability.

The state-by-state reports are available here.