1-15-2026 10:56pm

Cincinnati Ranks Best Places to Live and Work as a Moviemaker in 2026

Beth Callahan Editor

Story and photo courtesy of Game Day Communications

CINCINNATI — Cincinnati has been named one of MovieMaker Magazine’s Best Places to Live and Work as a Moviemaker in 2026, earning the No. 15 spot among major cities across the United States and Canada, according to the magazine’s Winter 2026 issue. The recognition reinforces Cincinnati’s national reputation as a film-friendly city that delivers professional infrastructure, competitive incentives, and high quality of life for filmmakers.

The annual MovieMaker list evaluates cities based on production activity, tax incentives, crew depth, permitting efficiency, infrastructure, cost of living, and overall livability. Cincinnati was highlighted for its streamlined permitting process through Film Cincinnati, an incredibly strong and talented local crew base, affordable cost of living, and an expanding network of production resources that support both large-scale studio projects as well as, independent filmmaking.

Recent productions filmed in Cincinnati include James Gunn’s “Superman,”as well as “The Mastermind,” directed by Kelly Reichardt and starring Josh O’Connell and Alana Haim. Not cited in the article but recently confirmed by Film Cincinnati, was the latest production to wrap principal photography, “The Chaperones”, directed by India Donaldson and produced by A24 and Plan B (originally founded by Brad Pitt and Jennifer Anniston) The film stars Paul Dano, David Johnson, and Cooper Hoffman. The magazine also cited Cincinnati’s distinctive architecture, particularly the Italianate buildings in Over-the-Rhine, as a valuable asset for period films and diverse storytelling.

Ohio’s 30 percent film tax rebate, combined with Cincinnati’s efficient permitting and below-average cost of living, was noted as a key competitive advantage, allowing filmmakers to stretch budgets while maintaining production quality. MovieMaker further recognized the city’s emphasis on quality of life, including extensive green space, bike trails, and vibrant neighborhoods that make long-term careers in film more sustainable.

“This recognition reflects decades of strategic investment in making Cincinnati a place where filmmakers can succeed while having a great quality of life,” said Kristen Schlotman, President and CEO of Film Cincinnati. “It affirms the growing influence of the creative economy and underscores Cincinnati’s emergence as a national leader in production. In a highly competitive industry, Film Cincinnati plays a decisive role in attracting major projects to the region. These productions generate jobs, develop local talent, and deliver lasting value to the regional economy. Cincinnati continues to strengthen its position as a destination for world class storytelling and a city where the creative sector drives real economic growth.”

Film Cincinnati has supported productions in the region for more than 30 years, positioning the city as an innovative, producer-focused destination known for collaboration, problem-solving, and efficiency throughout every phase of production.

The full list of MovieMaker Magazine’s “Best Places to Live and Work as a Moviemaker in 2026” appears in the Winter 2026 issue, available now at moviemaker.com.