What does this measure?

The number of establishments in the Arts, Entertainment and Recreation sector, shown as a rate per 10,000 people.

Why is this important?

Arts and cultural attractions bring visitors and money into a region, and contribute to the vitality and prestige of a community.

How is our county doing?

In 2016, there were 5.3 establishments in the Arts, Entertainment and Recreation sector per 10,000 residents in Essex County. This was higher than the U.S. rate of 4.2 and slightly higher than the state rate of 5.0.

Since 2000, the county rate has fluctuated, starting at a low of 4.4 in 2000 and peaking at 5.2 in 2006. The rate declined from 2009 to 2012 before increasing in 2013 to 2016. Both the state and national rates increased from 2000 until mid-decade, then declined slightly, and then increased in recent years. Overall, in Essex County the number of establishments in this sector per 10,000 residents in 2016 was 17% higher than in 2000. The state and nation also increased 18% and 12% over this time period.

How do we compare to similar counties?

In 2016, the number of Arts, Entertainment and Recreation establishments per 10,000 residents in Lake County, IL and Middlesex County, MA (5.1 and 4.9, respectively) were similar to Essex, while the rate was significantly higher in Westchester County, NY (6.9).

Notes about the data

County establishment estimates are reported by place of work, not place of residence. 2017 data for this indicator are expected to be released in the second quarter of 2019. An establishment is a single physical location at which business is conducted or services or industrial operations are performed.