The FY11 Arts and Culture Economic and Community Impact Report provides evidence that arts and cultural organizations are instrumental in making San Diego a vibrant city. The report found that the 68 arts and culture organizations funded with $5.8 million by the Commission’s OSP program stimulate the economy with over $170 million in expenditures. The report noted that economic activity created by cultural tourists, which spend more and stay longer, is particularly important to San Diego, creating jobs and attracting revenue. In 2011, over 2 million visitors participated in arts and cultural events funded by the Commission – supporting the local economy including hotel expenditures that directly contribute to Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) revenue. In addition, the 68 Commission-funded arts and culture organizations employ a workforce of more than 6,000.

The report also noted that the San Diego region is home to 4,631 arts-related businesses, both for profit and nonprofit, ranking 7th among the top largest US cities – ahead of Seattle, Phoenix, Denver and Philadelphia according to Creative Industries research conducted by Americans for the Arts. These businesses employ 22,727 people, placing San Diego 9th in the nation.