Chicago State of Live Study Methodology and Scope
The first economic research study of Chicago’s independent live music sector, detailing how data was collected, analyzed, and modeled.
This summary outlines the scope, assumptions, and analytical approach used in the Chicago State of Live study.
Findings reflect self-reported venue data and standard economic impact modeling and should be interpreted within the study’s defined scope and timeframe.
The report is based on localized Chicago data. Additional background on the broader State of Live research framework is available through the National Independent Venue Association State of Live: National Report.
Who was surveyed
- Survey participants were locally owned, independent concert halls operating within Chicago city limits.
- Survey results were supplemented with venue, attendance, and industry benchmarking data from JamBase, Jamalytics, and SMU DataArts, along with federal economic and employment datasets.
- Economic impact estimates were developed using IMPLAN modeling and follow national State of Live standards emphasizing conservative and defensible estimates.
Who was not included
- Large, multinational entertainment and concert conglomerates, including corporate and nationally owned venues and major arenas.
- Restaurants, bars, or other establishments where live music is not a core part of the business model.
- Venues outside Chicago, including suburban and downstate locations.
How the data was collected
- Venue owners and operators provided self-reported operational and financial data through a structured survey.
- Survey data was combined with regional economic and tourism data to capture direct, indirect, and induced impacts.
- Off-site spending by concertgoers, including hotels, restaurants, bars, and nearby businesses, was included.
Who conducted the analysis
- The economic analysis was conducted by TEConomy Partners, an independent economic research firm.
- The methodology aligns with standard economic impact modeling used in comparable national and state-level studies.
Timeframe
- The findings reflect calendar year 2024 operations and spending.
CIVL Chicago State of Live report.pdf
PDF 276 KB
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NIVA State of Live: National Report.pdf
PDF 724 KB
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Ryan Arnold
DeSoto & State Communications - Public Relations for Music, Arts & Education, and Nonprofit Organizations