Patrick
Kansas City’s entertainment sector is celebrating another standout year. Mayor Quinton Lucas announced that film productions have contributed an impressive $24.3 million to the local economy in 2025, reinforcing the metro’s rising profile as a major U.S. filmmaking destination.
Film Industry Growth Reaches New Heights
A Record-Setting Year for Local Productions
On Nov. 25, Mayor Lucas revealed that the city is experiencing one of its strongest years yet in film and television production. The reported economic boost reflects projects filmed between January and October 2025, marking the latest milestone in the city’s decade-long industry expansion.
According to Lucas, Kansas City’s film sector has become one of the most dynamic regional industries in the country. He credited the city’s incentive programs for creating jobs, stimulating business activity, and attracting larger productions than ever before.
A Surge in Film and TV Projects
Data from the Kansas City Film Office shows that more than a dozen projects have been drawn to the metro over the past two years, including:
- 11 feature films
- 3 television series
Major productions filmed locally include:
- Ted Lasso
- Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story
- A Grand Ole Opry Christmas
These projects continue to highlight Kansas City’s cultural identity and recognizable landmarks on national platforms.
Incentives Fueling Kansas City’s Creative Economy
Strong Returns From Local and State Programs
Kansas City leaders continue to promote their film incentive program, which has delivered impressive financial returns since its launch eight years ago. Officials confirmed that just over $500,000 in rebates helped bring in $8 million in direct production spending, proving the program’s value.
Rachel Kephart, Director of the Kansas City Film Office, emphasized that every production generates wide-ranging benefits. The reinstatement of Missouri’s state film incentive in 2023 has also significantly increased interest from major studios.
Kephart noted that combined city and state programs now position Kansas City as one of the most competitive filming destinations in the nation.
How Film Productions Boost the Local Economy
Jobs, Tourism & Business Growth
The surge in film activity supports multiple layers of Kansas City’s economy:
- Local film crews gain consistent employment on big-name projects.
- Hotels and restaurants experience increased foot traffic from cast and crew.
- Small businesses benefit from supplying equipment, services, and materials.
- Tourism rises, as film locations attract fans and visitors.
Mayor Lucas highlighted that the Film Office continues to measure the regional impact generated by film, TV, and commercial shoots. Each production enhances Kansas City’s reputation as a creative hub and adds measurable value to the local economy.
Strengthening Kansas City’s Future as a Creative Destination
Mayor Lucas stated that the city’s thriving film scene is part of a broader economic strategy aimed at positioning Kansas City as a national center for talent, storytelling, and creative industries. Every new project strengthens the workforce, increases economic returns, and amplifies the city’s visibility on a national stage.
Kansas City’s rapidly expanding film industry is reshaping its economic landscape. With more than $24 million infused into the local economy in 2025 and an increasing number of major productions choosing the metro, the city has firmly established itself as a rising force in the national entertainment sector.
Backed by strong incentive programs and a growing creative workforce, Kansas City is well on its way to becoming a premier destination for film and television production.