Motion Picture and Video Production — Business Survival Rate
An estimated 45% of motion picture and video production businesses survive their first 5 years, based on U.S. Census Bureau Business Dynamics Statistics. The annual business closure rate is 14.7%.
Is Motion Picture and Video Production a Good Business to Start?
With a 45% five-year survival rate, motion picture and video production is near the national average (~50%). This means roughly half of new entrants will still be operating after 5 years — typical business risk that rewards solid planning and execution.
The annual exit rate of 14.7% indicates moderate turnover. Success depends on differentiation, location, and operational efficiency rather than inherent industry advantages.
Entry vs. Exit Rates
Annual rate of new businesses opening versus existing businesses closing.
Net positive: more businesses opening than closing (+1.0 pp spread).
Job Creation & Destruction
The industry is adding jobs faster than losing them — a positive sign for both workers and new business owners looking to hire. Total employment: 303,649 workers across 16,844 firms.
Want to know how much motion picture and video production businesses actually make?
See full revenue benchmarks for Motion Picture and Video Production →Frequently Asked Questions
- What percentage of motion picture and video production businesses fail?
- Approximately 55% of motion picture and video production businesses fail within their first 5 years. The annual closure rate is 14.7%, with 2,110 firms closing permanently in 2023.
- Is the motion picture and video production industry growing or shrinking?
- The motion picture and video production industry is currently stable with a net job creation rate of +1.0% per year. New businesses are entering at 15.7% while 14.7% close annually.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Business Dynamics Statistics (2023). Survival rate estimated from annual exit rates.