Written by new-contact on Aug 6, 2014. Posted in On Location

Georgia location filming surges past a billion dollars for first time

Location filming in Georgia surpassed the billion-dollar mark in the 2013/14 fiscal year as the state attracted movies like Insurgent and the Hunger Games sequels. Nearly 160 productions filmed locally, spending USD1.4 billion, but the overall economic impact is estimated at five times that figure.

“Not only has this industry created jobs and investment opportunities for Georgians, it also has revitalised communities, established new educational programmes, tourism product and more,” said Georgia’s Governor Nathan Deal, whose Office released the figures.

“I will continue my commitment to growing this industry and to developing a film-ready workforce to meet the needs of the productions that are setting up shop in Georgia.”

Added Chris Carr, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Economic Development: “Since 2008, more than 90 companies have located in Georgia to support the industry. These new businesses are generating jobs and ensuring the industry’s sustainability in Georgia well into the future.”

Georgia’s production industry has been built on the strength of its generous 20% base filming incentive and its world-class infrastructure, which includes Pinewood Atlanta, Atlanta Film Studios and Raleigh Studios Atlanta.

Not only has this industry created jobs and investment opportunities for Georgians, it also has revitalised communities.

Nathan Deal, Governor of Georgia

Recent high-profile productions filming in the city have included the Young Adult drama sequel Insurgent, which relocated from its original Chicago filming location, and the Hunger Games franchise, which switched from North Carolina. Zombie drama The Walking Dead is one of America’s most popular TV shows and has been based in Atlanta for the past four years.

Atlanta’s popularity is in fact impacting its more limited crew pool, forcing some larger productions – such as Marvel’s Ant-Man – to fly in crew from California. The issue is now being addressed by state authorities.

To read more from The Location Guide about Georgia's continuing appeal click here.