Creative Sector Activity

How are we doing?

Santa Monica has a remarkable, yet in some ways hidden, asset in the 1,746 creative sector businesses that contribute to the cultural fabric of the city. Santa Monica has been a destination and a haven for artists for more than a hundred years. It also boasts perhaps the largest concentration of creative employment in the US.—even compared to Los Angeles and other creative centers. In 2007 the City adopted Creative Capital , a collective vision for the future of the arts and culture in Santa Monica. The plan documents challenges facing the arts, and lays out strategies for fulfilling this vision. . These strategies will help the City reach its target for no net losses in creative sector businesses by 2020.

Creative Businesses

This indicator measures the number of businesses in the creative sector.

Percent of Creative Sector

This indicator measures the percent of total businesses are in the creative sector. 

Employees in Creative Sector

This indicator measures the average number of employees in the creative sector. 

Wages in Creative Sector


How can we help?

  • Support local artists and creative sector businesses.
  • Get involved with local arts events and festivals by following the Santa Monica Cultural Affairs Division or by signing up for The Palette, a weekly email that highlights art and cultural events happening in Santa Monica.
  • Recognize local creative business leaders by nominating them for the Arts Leadership Award.