Newton County Film Industry
Driving Tourism, Jobs, and Economic Growth in Georgia’s “Hollywood of the South”
The Challenge
With Newton County emerging as one of Georgia’s designated “Camera Ready Communities,” local leaders sought to better understand the economic influence of the region’s booming film industry. From television and film productions to tourism inspired by on-screen locations, Newton County’s growing reputation as a filming destination was reshaping its local economy. The Newton County Industrial Development Authority needed data to quantify both the current and future impact of this fast-expanding sector.
How We Helped
Tripp Umbach was retained to analyze the economic, employment, and tax revenue impacts of film industry activity and film-driven tourism in Newton County. Using industry-standard models and localized data, the study measured the direct and indirect spending tied to productions, visitor traffic, and supporting businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and retail. The analysis also projected the impact of major investments like Cinelease Studios–Three Ring, a state-of-the-art production campus positioned to anchor long-term industry growth in the region.
The Impact
Tripp Umbach found that film-related tourism generates nearly $8 million in annual economic impact, sustaining 131 jobs and producing $399,000 in government revenue for the county. Beyond the measurable economic returns, the industry has revitalized Covington’s historic downtown, inspired local entrepreneurship, and cemented Newton County’s reputation as the “Hollywood of the South.” With strong infrastructure, affordability, and community support, Newton County continues to attract producers, directors, and fans from around the world—positioning itself as a premier hub for film production and tourism in Georgia.