Independent Artists, Writers, and Performers — Business Survival Rate

An estimated 40% of independent artists, writers, and performers businesses survive their first 5 years, based on U.S. Census Bureau Business Dynamics Statistics. The annual business closure rate is 16.7%.

40%
5-Year Survival Rate
+6.6%
Net Growth Rate
23,276
Total Firms
3,172
Annual Firm Deaths

Is Independent Artists, Writers, and Performers a Good Business to Start?

With a 40% five-year survival rate, independent artists, writers, and performers has a below-average survival rate compared to the national average of ~50%. This indicates higher risk of failure — new entrants face significant competitive pressure or challenging economics.

The annual exit rate of 16.7% is elevated. If you're considering entering this industry, ensure adequate capitalization, a clear competitive advantage, and realistic timeline to profitability.

Entry vs. Exit Rates

Annual rate of new businesses opening versus existing businesses closing.

Entry Rate (new businesses)21.9%
Exit Rate (closures)16.7%

Net positive: more businesses opening than closing (+5.2 pp spread).

Job Creation & Destruction

27.0%
Job Creation Rate
20.4%
Job Destruction Rate
+6.6%
Net Job Growth

The industry is adding jobs faster than losing them — a positive sign for both workers and new business owners looking to hire. Total employment: 66,236 workers across 23,276 firms.

Want to know how much independent artists, writers, and performers businesses actually make?

See full revenue benchmarks for Independent Artists, Writers, and Performers →

Frequently Asked Questions

What percentage of independent artists, writers, and performers businesses fail?
Approximately 60% of independent artists, writers, and performers businesses fail within their first 5 years. The annual closure rate is 16.7%, with 3,172 firms closing permanently in 2023.
Is the independent artists, writers, and performers industry growing or shrinking?
The independent artists, writers, and performers industry is currently growing with a net job creation rate of +6.6% per year. New businesses are entering at 21.9% while 16.7% close annually.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Business Dynamics Statistics (2023). Survival rate estimated from annual exit rates.