The Cincinnati region's artistic spirit continues to earn national recognition, as our region secures its place among the country's most culturally vibrant communities for the fourth consecutive year. According to SMU DataArts' latest Arts Vibrancy Index, Cincinnati stands alongside cultural powerhouses like New York, San Francisco and Boston in the top 20 most arts-vibrant large communities in the United States. This recognition isn't just about prestige — it's backed by hard data that demonstrates our region's commitment to fostering a thriving arts scene that enriches both our economy and community life.

What's the Arts Vibrancy Index?
Think of the Arts Vibrancy Index as a report card for creativity. SMU DataArts, the National Center for Arts Research, crunches numbers on arts supply, demand, and government support across more than 900 communities nationwide. They look at factors like the number of arts providers, arts dollars, government support, and socio-economic and other leisure characteristics. It's a comprehensive snapshot of how the arts are flourishing in communities across the country.

Cincy's Star Power
So, where does Cincinnati shine brightest? Let's break it down:
• Top 1% for earned program revenue: Our theaters, museums and concert halls are packing in the crowds. Cincinnatians are showing up for the arts.
• Top 2% for total compensation for arts workers: We're not just attracting talent — we're paying them, which means creative professionals often set down roots in Cincy.

"In the Cincinnati region, our community recognizes that the arts are not just a nice-to-have," says Alecia Kintner, President and CEO of ArtsWave. " They are a necessary part of the economy, to the tune of $1.6 billion in economic impact over the last four years. This report is yet another proof point that our arts in Cincinnati are a significant driver of the vibrancy that is coming to define our region."

More Than Just Numbers
While the rankings are impressive, what really matters is how the arts shape our daily lives. From the awe-inspiring BLINK® that transforms our city into a canvas of light and wonder, to intimate gallery openings in Over-the-Rhine, the arts in Cincinnati create shared experiences that bring us together and make our community stronger.

This vibrancy isn't an accident. It's the result of decades of strategic investment and support from individuals, businesses and organizations like ArtsWave. It comes from decades of strategic, philanthropic investment in the arts by individuals and businesses. The Arts Vibrancy Index provides a tangible way to showcase the return on that investment.

A Call to Keep the Momentum Going
Cincinnati's place among the nation's most arts-vibrant communities is something to celebrate, but it's also a call to action. To maintain and grow this vibrancy, we need continued support from every corner of our community.

Want to be part of Cincinnati's artistic journey? Visit artswave.org/give to learn how you can support the arts in our region. Let's keep Cincinnati shining bright on the national stage!