Do You Really Have to Move to NYC to Do Musical Theatre? Let’s Talk.

NYC or Bust? Rethinking the Actor’s Big Move

Hi, I’m Jessica Tanner—musical theatre performer, content creator, and mom. Today, I want to dive into something a little controversial:

👉 Do you really have to move to New York City to “make it” in musical theatre?

For decades, the narrative has been New York City or bust. If you weren’t hustling in Manhattan, you weren’t a “serious” actor. But I think it’s time we bust that myth wide open. Having lived in New York myself, I can tell you—it’s not the only path.

In fact, there are plenty of cities across the U.S. where actors can thrive, work consistently, and actually afford to live while doing it.

Check out my Actor Essentials list* for gear that’s handy no matter where you land.

Why NYC Still Gets All the Attention

It’s obvious why NYC has been the mecca for so long: Broadway, Off-Broadway, endless auditions, constant networking, and world-class studios. You can’t throw a coffee cup without hitting another actor.

But here’s the reality check:

Average rent in Manhattan: $4,000+ for a one-bedroom (apartments.com).
Early-career contracts (like small equity or regional gigs) often don’t even cover a fraction of that rent.
Broadway shows pay well—but they also close fast. Nothing is guaranteed.

And here’s the kicker: since the pandemic, self-tapes and virtual auditions are here to stay. EPAs, open calls, and even coaching sessions are now online. Meaning? You don’t have to live in NYC to audition for roles in NYC—or anywhere else.

Cities Where Actors Can Build a Thriving Career

Let’s break down some strong contenders where musical theatre is alive, affordable, and exciting.

🎭 Chicago

Average Rent: Under $2,000 for a one-bedroom.
Theatre Scene: Steppenwolf, Goodman, Chicago Shakespeare + countless storefront theatres.
Why It Works: Contracts here actually match the cost of living. Your paycheck stretches way further than in NYC.

🎭 Washington, DC

Average Rent: $2,300 for a one-bedroom.
Theatre Scene: Kennedy Center, Arena Stage, Signature Theatre.
Why It Works: A train ride from NYC, plus steady local opportunities. Perfect for actors who want access to Broadway auditions without NYC rent.

🎭 Los Angeles

Average Rent: Slightly cheaper than NYC.
Theatre Scene: Smaller venues + fringe theatre, but strong in film/TV crossover.
Why It Works: If you’re interested in new works and film, LA blends both worlds.

🎭 Atlanta

Average Rent: Around $1,600.
Theatre Scene: Alliance Theatre, Aurora Theatre + massive film industry incentives.
Why It Works: A great balance for actors who want stage and screen work without NYC or LA costs.

🎭 Houston (my home!)

Average Rent: ~$1,200 for a one-bedroom.
Theatre Scene: Theatre Under the Stars, The Alley Theatre, plus a vibrant community at MATCH.
Why It Works: Affordable living, strong theatre community, and the bonus of family support if you’re a parent like me.

🎭 Dallas / Fort Worth

Average Rent: ~$1,100–$1,300.
Theatre Scene: Dallas Theater Center (a Tony winner!) + a growing arts hub.
Why It Works: Major airport access for contracts elsewhere + an affordable home base.

🎭 Minneapolis / St. Paul

Average Rent: Around $1,400.
Theatre Scene: The Guthrie + rich community programming.
Why It Works: Incredible training opportunities and community engagement—if you can handle the winters!

What Really Matters When Choosing Where to Live

Here’s the truth: there’s no one-size-fits-all for actors. You need to ask yourself:

Do I want to be near family for support?
Am I more interested in new works, Broadway-bound tryouts, or classics?
Do I want the flexibility to do both stage and screen?
Can I balance financial security with artistic fulfillment here?

Because in today’s industry, the key to longevity isn’t just living in the “right” city—it’s building a sustainable life. That means financial security, artistic joy, and a supportive community.

Final Thoughts

So, if you’ve always thought it’s NYC or bust, let me remind you: you get to write the blueprint for your career.

Theatre exists in every corner of this country. And with self-tapes and online networking, you can be visible anywhere.

Pick the city that makes sense for your art, your finances, and your heart. Because thriving as an actor isn’t just about where you live—it’s about building a life that allows you to keep going.

✨ Over to you: Would you move to one of these cities instead of NYC? Which one resonates most? Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear from you.

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