Quick Answer
While both cities offer ample acting opportunities, Los Angeles emerges as the top choice for aspiring TV and film actors thanks to its bustling studio system and constant production. The sheer volume of pilots, episodic shows, and major studio films make LA the clear capital for on-camera work. Meanwhile, New York reigns supreme for stage actors. Broadway and NYC's renowned theater community have no equal, providing unmatched training and exposure for theater-focused talents. For commercials, LA again dominates as the major ad hub. Overall, an actor's individual goals steer the ideal location. Broadway dreams find their home in New York, while TV and movie stardom are more likely to be found in Los Angeles. Regardless, with dedication and persistence, a talented actor can find their path to success in either legendary entertainment metropolis.
Introduction
Since the early days of film and television, New York City and Los Angeles have reigned as the twin capitals of the entertainment industry. Aspiring actors across the globe fixate on these legendary cities as beacons of opportunity, fame and artistic fulfillment.
New York built its reputation as a talent mecca thanks to its iconic Broadway theater district. Los Angeles became known as the movie-making hub through its sunny climate and proximity to Hollywood. While only separated by a 6 hour flight, the East Coast and West Coast entertainment scenes developed nuanced differences. So which entertainment titan truly offers actors the best opportunities and resources?
The New York versus Los Angeles debate stirs up passionate opinions within the acting community. The "best" city often comes down to personal factors - which industry niche actors want to thrive in, finances, lifestyle preferences and more. In truth, both cities can launch successful acting careers with their abundant jobs, training and representation.
This comprehensive guide will break down the key differences between New York and Los Angeles when it comes to critical acting essentials. We'll compare and contrast the theater, TV, film and commercial opportunities in each city. You'll also gain insider knowledge on access to agents and managers, training options, expenses and survival jobs. Interviews with working NYC and LA actors provide real-world insight.
Whether you dream of Broadway bows or box office blockbusters, this guide serves as an invaluable resource. By understanding the unique offerings of the Big Apple versus the City of Angels, you can make the savvy move that best supports your artistic visions. Let's dive in to demystify what it takes to get your big break as an actor in New York or LA!
Theater Acting Opportunities
Broadway and Off-Broadway
New York is renowned as the theater capital of the world, thanks to the legendary Broadway district. Broadway productions are the pinnacle for musical theater actors, as well as straight play actors. While extremely competitive, Broadway shows offer actors steady work, union contracts, and exposure to massive audiences.
Beyond Broadway, New York's robust Off-Broadway scene provides plentiful theater acting gigs. Off-Broadway productions are often edgier and more experimental, allowing actors to showcase their range. Off-Broadway contracts and salaries are typically less than Broadway shows. However, Off-Broadway is an excellent stepping stone and training ground for aspiring Broadway performers.
Regional Theater
In addition to Broadway caliber productions, New York boasts an abundance of high-quality regional theaters. Notable companies outside NYC include the Huntington Theater Company in Boston, Goodman Theatre in Chicago, and Shakespeare Theatre Company in Washington DC. These regional theaters allow NYC-based actors to gain experience and paychecks between Broadway and Off-Broadway gigs.
Fringe Theater
Fringe festivals and experimental theaters provide yet another creative outlet for NYC stage actors. Avant-garde companies like The Wooster Group and Elevator Repair Service specialize in unconventional, often immersive productions. Fringe festivals also enable indie actors and playwrights to mount innovative works on a small budget.
In Los Angeles, the theater scene is far smaller than New York. However, LA does host several respected theater companies like Center Theatre Group, Geffen Playhouse, and the La Jolla Playhouse satellite. These productions provide acting opportunities for film and TV stars looking to flex their stage muscles. Overall though, New York offers vastly more theater acting gigs, from tiny fringe shows to mega-musicals.
Television Acting Opportunities
When it comes to TV acting, Los Angeles has a definitive edge over the Big Apple. As the entertainment capital, LA is the prime location for casting television shows and series regular gigs.
Pilot Season
LA's legendary pilot season runs from January through April, when the bulk of new shows are cast for the upcoming fall season. Actors flock to LA pilot season in hopes of landing that one in a million breakout role. Testing and auditioning for pilots is intense and cutthroat. But for actors who book a pilot and get picked up, it can catapult their career.
Episodic TV
Beyond pilots, Los Angeles offers endless episodic TV opportunities. Sitcoms, dramas, soap operas - most major network and cable shows film in LA. The plethora of episodic work enables actors to build their resumes and join the coveted ranks of the Screen Actors Guild (SAG). Membership in SAG comes with valuable benefits like union protection, health insurance eligibility, and bigger paychecks.
While New York does host a handful of TV productions, the options are far fewer for actors. Many NYC-based actors submit self-taped auditions for shows filming in LA. Some actors may commute for callbacks or fly out temporarily if booked. However, LA's status as the TV production capital makes it the ideal home base for actors pursuing steady television work.
Film Acting Opportunities
Like television, the majority of U.S. film production takes place in Los Angeles. However, NYC does offer actors some advantages when it comes to film acting.
Hollywood Blockbusters
For big budget Hollywood movies, LA is still the place to be. Major studios like Paramount, Universal, and Warner Brothers are located in LA, along with most major casting offices. Films shoot on the numerous studio lots around town. While competitive, studio features provide actors invaluable exposure and club member status.
Independent Films
On the indie film front, New York holds its own against LA. Independent films are a major part of NYC's entertainment sector. Well-known directors like Martin Scorsese, Spike Lee, and Woody Allen consistently produce films in New York. Actors can keep busy with smaller films, shorts, and web series between Broadway or TV gigs. The NYC indie community is tight knit and collaborative, allowing actors to stretch their artistic muscles.
The LA independent film scene certainly exists, but generally takes a backseat to big budget productions. Actors often have more luck getting cast in indie films in New York rather than LA.
Commercial Acting Opportunities
When it comes to commercial acting gigs, Los Angeles once again rules the roost. Major ad agencies like Saatchi & Saatchi, TBWA, and Ogilvy have offices in LA to produce commercials. The city's soundstages and diverse locations make it an ideal shooting hub. Actors have ample opportunities to book national network commercials as well as local and regional spots.
While fewer ad agencies base their production in NYC, commercial work does exist. Actors may land voiceover jobs or local commercial gigs for New York-based brands. However, for big national campaigns, LA remains the place to be. Commercial acting is quite lucrative, so Los Angeles provides more moneymaking potential.
Access to Agents and Managers
For most actors, getting representation by an agent or manager is a crucial career milestone. When it comes to influential entertainment reps, Los Angeles and New York are neck and neck.
Bi-Coastal Agencies
Many high-profile agencies like CAA, WME, and UTA have offices in both NYC and LA. Top agents divvy up their client rosters between the two locations. Actors working in LA, New York, or going bi-coastal have access to powerhouse representatives at these companies.
NYC Boutique Agencies
While bi-coastal agencies dominate the talent representation landscape, NYC is home to many boutique commercial and theatrical agencies. These small and mid-size agencies may be more accessible for new actors trying to get signed. Build up your resume with theater or indie films in NYC, and boutique agencies take notice.
LA Management Companies
Los Angeles has hundreds of talent management companies representing actors of all levels. Managers play a hands-on role overseeing their clients' careers. Many managers participate in LA pilot season, pitching their actors to networks and casting directors. Managers provide guidance navigating the complex studio and network systems.
Overall, actors in both cities have ample opportunity to secure representation. For bi-coastal agencies, submission processes are largely the same in NYC and LA. Boutique agencies provide more access in New York, while managers are integral in guiding LA-based actors.
Acting Training Opportunities
No matter the city, honing your craft through acting classes is essential. Both New York and Los Angeles offer abundant training opportunities to suit any budget or schedule.
Drama Schools and Conservatories
For intensive training, New York boasts world-renowned drama schools Juilliard, NYU Tisch, and the Lee Strasberg Institute. These programs enable students to completely immerse themselves in their acting education. With a mix of classroom instruction and practical experience, conservatory-style programs build rock-solid technical skills.
In LA, premier acting schools include UCLA, USC, and the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. Deciding between an East Coast or West Coast conservatory depends on your specific career goals. The resources of NYC schools make them hard to beat for theater actors. However, LA schools excel at on-camera training tailored for film and TV.
Private Coaches and Classes
For actors not interested in full-time training, private coaching provides an alternative. Both cities have a wealth of acting teachers and coaches. Big names like Larry Moss, Ivana Chubbuck and Margie Haber maintain studios in LA. NY institutions include William Esper, Tom Todoroff and Wynn Handman.
Classes range from scene study and cold reading to voice and movement. With so many options, actors can target courses aligned with their personal growth areas. Check instructors' creds and clientele to vet quality.
On-Camera and Commercial Classes
On-camera and commercial-specific training opportunities also abound in both cities. Casting director seminars and intensive weekend classes cover vital skills for film, TV and ad audition technique. While LA likely boasts more on-camera and commercial classes, the quality in NYC is top-notch. Research and ask fellow actors for on-camera class recommendations no matter your home base.
No matter where actors choose to live and work, training must remain a priority to stay sharp. Luckily, ample resources exist in both entertainment hubs.
Cost of Living and Expenses
Beyond acting opportunities, another major factor is each city's cost of living - especially for actors starting out.
Rent and Housing Costs
It's no secret that both NYC and LA are expensive places to live. However, New York rents are astronomical, even by major city standards. The average NYC actor likely faces roommates and hefty portions of income allotted to rent. Shared apartments, illegal sublets, and couch surfing are common solutions among aspiring actors.
LA has greater sprawl, so more affordable neighborhoods exist. While hardly cheap, aspiring actors can at least locate apartments and find roommates. Commutes to central Hollywood are longer but may be worth the cost savings. Expect rent to consume a large chunk of income in both cities.
Daily Living Expenses
Groceries, utilities, transportation - all the costs associated with daily life add up quickly in NYC and LA. However, Los Angeles remains overall more affordable for items like food, gym memberships, entertainment, etc. Actors can potentially live more frugally in LA than the notoriously pricey NYC.
Work Opportunities Outside of Acting
Steady non-acting jobs are a lifeline for many up and coming actors. Waiting tables or bartending provide much-needed income between gigs. When weighing cities, consider part-time work opportunities.
Hospitality and Service Jobs
The massive restaurant and hospitality sector provides endless part-time work in New York City. Actors commonly wait tables at NYC institutions like The Olive Garden in Times Square or TAO Downtown. Bartending, hosting, tour guiding - service jobs are easy to land. Flexible shifts accommodate auditioning and gigging.
In car-centric LA, traditional service jobs may require longer commutes. However, regular parking lot work provides quick cash. Brand ambassador, trade show and event gigs also pop up frequently. The tourism sector also ramps up part-time work. Being a Hollywood tour guide has natural appeal for actors.
Office Work and Temping
Administrative and corporate gigs comprise another talent pipeline in New York. Office manager, executive assistant and front desk roles hire frequently. Signing with a temp agency allows actors to pick up random office work. The glut of corporate jobs makes it possible to pad resumes and schedules with office temping.
The LA corporate job market certainly exists, clustered in pockets like Century City and Beverly Hills. Acting "day jobs" in offices or talent agencies are common LA cliches. But the professional job market seems looser and less organized than New York's skyscraper hubs.
Navigating the Acting World As a Newcomer
For aspiring actors new to New York or Los Angeles, navigating the entertainment industry can feel daunting. Here are some tips for getting your footing as you build your career:
Making Connections
Network, network, network! Attend industry events, join organizations like the Actor's Studio, and follow casting directors on social media. Meeting people is crucial, even if justbrief encounters at a workshop or on set.
Take advantage of social media by engaging professionally on Twitter/IG with peers and legit theater companies. Social can help actors be visible to CDs and reps.
Sign up for actor databases like Actors Access and Backstage. Upload headshots and resumes to be searchable by casting agents.
In LA especially, many gigs come via referrals and recommendations. Being reliable, prepared and personable on every acting job goes a long way.
Consider interning or working part-time at an agency or management company. The exposure provides insight into the business and helps build valuable relationships.
Selecting Headshots
Quality headshots are an actor's calling card and require an investment. Photographers used to working with actors can offer guidance on poses and branding.
Bring multiple wardrobe options to try varied looks - commercial, theatrical, girl/boy next door. Good photographers will have clothing samples as well.
Snap lots of shots from multiple angles to maximize options. Zoom or Skype consultations beforehand help align on goals.
Print several sizes (8x10, postcard) and purchase digital reproductions. Upload to casting sites and ordering prints as needed.
Retake new headshots every 1-2 years as your look evolves. As your career progresses, upgrades in photographer/styling keep shots looking fresh.
Crafting Your Resume
Lead with training at reputable acting schools, institutions or private coaches - especially newcomers.
List theatrical roles, highlighting lead, supporting, ensemble status. Add brief character descriptions and theater companies.
For film/TV, include show names, production companies, director. Add character details for speaking roles versus background work.
Commercials and voiceover - list products, agency names, air dates if known. Also add any modeling or print work.
Soft skills like accents, musical ability, dance or movement styles are great add-ons.
Exclude irrelevant jobs to keep focus on acting accomplishments. One page is best. Update monthly.
Audition Preparation
Choose reputable scene study and cold reading classes. They build skills and provide audition material ideas.
To self tape at home, invest in basic equipment - camera, lighting, tripod. Apps like VH or WeAudition provide reader lines and tips.
Record multiple takes and watch with a critical eye. Reshoot if needed until the best take with optimal lighting and sound.
For theater calls, have go-to contemporary and classical monologues memorized and ready. Shakespeare monologues impress.
Bring acting resumes stapled to the back of headshots. Don't give photos unless requested.
Arrive 10-15 minutes early, looking professional but neutral. Avoid strong scents or noisy jewelry.
Be polite to every person you encounter at auditions - they're all potential contacts. Send thank you notes or emails when possible.
Handling Rejection
Develop resilience by viewing auditions as opportunities to improve your skills, rather than pass/fail tests. Each is great practice.
Don't take rejection personally. Even successful actors hear "no" far more than "yes." Focus energy on the next opportunity instead.
Notice patterns in feedback to improve. If you frequently flub cold reads, take a class. If nerves derail you, work on mindfulness.
Have non-acting hobbies and supportive community to anchor mental health when the job is discouraging.
Trust the timing of opportunity versus trying to force it. The right role will happen when you're truly ready.
Balancing Survival Jobs and Auditions
Until acting gigs provide a steady living, most actors rely on side jobs. Pick up work that offers:
Flexibility - Ask about taking time off for auditions or gigs during interviews. Serving and hospitality jobs often allow swapping shifts.
Cash payment - Many tipped jobs pay cash nightly or weekly, ideal for actors without steady paychecks. Check best shifts for maximizing tips.
Low commitment - Temporary admin jobs through an agency allow actors to decline additional assignments if too busy.
Connections - Office PAs, tour guides and nightclub promos could lead to acting contacts and referrals.
Valuable skills - Jobs requiring public speaking, client outreach or foreign languages boost your resume.
Actor-friendly bosses - Waiting tables at an LA hotspot or NYC theater district restaurant may be more understanding.
When balancing survival work and auditions:
Cluster auditions if possible on slower work days to minimize schedules conflicts.
Swap shifts or request off far in advance when you land a callback. Most bosses will be flexible if given notice.
Save acting jobs that require travel for periods when you can take off work without issue.
Ask if employers allow taking/making acting related calls and emails on breaks when needed.
Set clear boundaries on skills versus time if volunteering for indie film sets or theaters. Don't overextend.
Occasionally treat yourself to an Uber/Lyft if exhausted - safety getting to late night gigs trumps frugality.
The key is picking employers, shifts and a workload that doesn't burn you out. Trust instincts if any gig starts to compromise acting. Opportunities to showcase your talents won't wait - say no to side hustles that conflict too heavily with acting goals.
Optimizing Finances on an Actor's Income
Making ends meet with unsteady acting paydays requires financial savvy. Try these tips to maximize limited funds:
Housing
Seek affordable, communal housing farther from downtown cores. More space and lower costs outweigh long commutes.
Negotiate discounts for paying rent in advance when possible. Offering 6-12 months upfront looks attractive to landlords.
Ask about reductions for services you may rarely use like parking, gym passes or cable TV. Every bit helps.
Transportation
Use public transportation and invest in an unlimited monthly metro pass. Apps like CityMapper plan the best routes.
Join carpool groups for major audition hubs like Burbank or midtown. Splitting gas, tolls and parking cuts costs.
Live walking distance to key sites like your survival job, gym, grocery store, auditions if realistic. Avoid driving/Ubers.
Day to Day Costs
Stick to cooking at home versus takeout. Meal prep and batch cook healthy recipes when you have time.
Limit premium coffee runs. Make large batches of cold brew concentrate at home for iced coffee.
Buy alcohol at liquor/grocery stores for home versus inflated restaurant and bar tabs. Entertain friends at your place.
Create free entertainment like movie clubs, reading groups or potlucks with friends. Take advantage of free days at museums.
Buy generics, look for sales and limit shopping trips to only planned purchases. Avoid impulse buys.
Ongoing Training
Audit classes first to ensure a solid curriculum and instructor reputation. Only officially enroll in the very best to maximize value.
Register early for discounted rates. Classes sometimes offer work-study for partial refunds.
Split costs by creating group class packages with a few dedicated classmates. Bundle buying power.
With careful planning, actors can squash expenses and still enjoy vibrant lives in bustling entertainment hubs. Don't lose hope - with tenacity and smarts, an acting career can absolutely be financially viable.
Staying Sane Through the Acting Journey's Ups and Downs
An acting career is an endless rollercoaster of successes and stumbles. Having outlets and habits to maintain perspective is crucial.
Combating Rejection
It's impossible to avoid rejection in this industry. Strategies to power through the nos:
Vent to sympathetic ears - let frustrations out with a trusted teacher or fellow actor who won't minimize your feelings.
Avoid negative generalizations - "I did horribly" becomes "this one felt off." Don't define yourself by single experiences.
Celebrate small wins - book the commercial callback, nail the dance call, connect with that director. Progress fuels motivation.
Focus on controllables - the only constant is your preparation, professionalism and persistence. Control what you can.
Change your scenery - shake off bad auditions with a long walk, gym session or fun diversion to disrupt brooding.
Managing Survival Jobs
Side hustles pay bills but can breed resentment. Make the most of them:
Set short term goals - save for a class, new headshots, laptop. Having an endpoint makes the work purposeful.
Treat it as a role - use waiting or bartending to flex your acting muscles through character work.
Bond with coworkers - foster camaraderie to feel part of a community, make shifts go quicker.
Find meaning - enable a service job by reminding yourself it brings people joy and connection.
Make time for fun - plan regular activities totally unrelated to work to blow off steam.
Tuning Out the Noise
The acting journey contains constant external judgment, unrealistic standards and comparison traps. Methods to keep perspective:
Limit social media - curate feeds to inspirational and career-focused content only. Avoid mindless scrolling.
Celebrate others' successes - genuinely cheer on peers without tying to personal shortcomings. There's room for everyone to thrive.
Assess inner critics - notice self-limiting thoughts as they arise. Are they grounded in truth or distorted perspectives?
Surround yourself with "your people" - positive family, friends and mentors who reinforce your dreams provide reality checks.
Check motivations - reconnect with your artistry and values versus external measures of success. You define what matters most.
The acting journey requires resilience, patience and faith. By building habits to weather the highs and lows, long-term fulfillment in this profession is possible. Trust the process.
The Verdict: NYC vs LA for Acting
The debate between New York City and Los Angeles as the prime talent hub rages on. Which provides the superior launching pad largely depends on an actor's interests:
For unmatched theater opportunities, New York reigns supreme thanks to Broadway and bustling Off-Broadway and regional scenes. LA simply cannot compete when it comes to stage acting.
For TV and film acting, Los Angeles provides more job options and exposure. Pilot season, studio films and industry connections are best found on the West Coast.
Both cities offer ample acting training and access to top-notch agents and managers. Resources are spread more broadly across genres and mediums in LA compared to New York's theater focus.
Economically, Los Angeles remains more affordable overall for housing and living expenses. Survival jobs are easier to come by as well amidst the sprawl.
The ideal scenario? Lay roots in one city while commuting occasionally to the other to broaden opportunities. Many actors find success working bi-coastally.
| Category | New York City | Los Angeles |
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| Theater Acting Opportunities |
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| TV Acting Opportunities |
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| Film Acting Opportunities |
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| Commercial Acting Opportunities |
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| Access to Agents/Managers |
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| Acting Training |
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| Cost of Living/Expenses |
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| Survival Jobs |
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| Making Connections |
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| Headshots |
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| Resume |
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| Audition Preparation |
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| Handling Rejection |
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| Category | New York City | Los Angeles |
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| Housing Costs |
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| Transportation |
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| Daily Costs |
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| Training Costs |
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| Side Jobs |
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| Balancing Jobs & Auditions |
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| Mental Health |
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| Making Connections |
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| Reality of the Industry |
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| Work/Life Balance |
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Conclusion
When it comes to prime destinations to launch an acting career, New York and Los Angeles both offer unmatched communities, resources and opportunities. While commonly pitted against each other, the cities have evolved to serve complementary roles in the entertainment ecosystem.
For stage actors, New York cannot be beat. The sheer volume of high caliber theater productions provides endless training, exposure and jobs for Broadway hopefuls. Los Angeles simply does not have an artistic theater scene on par with New York's pedigree.
On the opposite coast, Los Angeles dominates the TV and film realms. Pilot season, studio lot access and Hollywood connections give actors pursuing screen careers a clear advantage in LA. While New York hosts productions as well, the volume pales compared to the constant hustle of Los Angeles.
In reality, many working actors find success by bridging both cities. Maintaining an NYC home base while traveling periodically to LA for pilot season and film/TV auditions is a common bi-coastal strategy. Other actors start out establishing themselves on one coast, then relocate when opportunities arise organically in the other city.
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the New York or Los Angeles debate. Savvy actors conduct extensive research on the resources, costs, training and contacts available in each location. Determining your niche - be it theater, TV/film or commercial - helps identify which hub aligns best. Set goals, make connections and continue sharpening your skills. With dedication to the craft and business, an actor can thrive on either coast.
The most critical lesson? Success ultimately comes from within. Don't get hung up chasing external measures of achievement. Stay grounded in your values. Keep sight of why you chose this path, and let that passion guide you through the triumphs and tribulations. Wherever you land, believe in your talents and trust that opportunities to showcase your gifts will follow.