New York or Los Angeles: Which City is More Suitable for Filmmakers?

Are you a filmmaker dreaming of making it big in New York City or Los Angeles? As someone who has lived and worked in both cities, I can tell you that each has its pros and cons. When I first moved to LA, I was swept up in the glamour of it all. But after two years of taking meetings and not making any real progress, I realized that the budgetary constraints were a major obstacle. Even a “low budget” film in Hollywood can cost upwards of $1 million, which is a lot of money to raise from family and friends or investors who don’t know you yet.

That’s when I decided to move to New York City, where I was able to fund a web series through Kickstarter that went on to get a million views on YouTube. This led to investors funding my first feature film, which we shot in just 14 days for a fraction of what it would have cost in LA. The depth of talent in NYC and the city’s “let’s do it” attitude made it possible.

But after five years in the city, I was ready for a change. I moved back to LA, where I was able to put down roots and make connections in the Hollywood scene. And while LA is no cheap date, I now have a real house with a backyard and a studio to work out of, all for the same price as a tiny one-bedroom apartment in Brooklyn.

If you’re thinking of making the move to pursue your dreams, my advice is to go for it! Just be aware of the challenges and opportunities each city presents. And if you’re looking for more industry insights, be sure to check out the articles linked below.