The Entertainment Software Association has published a report highlighting the economic contributions of the video games industry in the US, and it comes with quite a few interesting statistics. Called “Video Games in the 21st Century,” the report reveals that in 2015, the industry contributed more than $11.7 billion to U.S. GDP.
In the same year, 2,457 video game companies were functional at 2,858 locations in “all” fifty states. The industry now employs over 65,000 people across the country. “The total employment that depends on the game software industry now exceeds 220,000,” reads the report. Compensation per employee averaged $97,000 (wages, salaries and employer contributions for pensions, insurance and government social insurance). Michael D. Gallagher, president and CEO of ESA said:
The 21st Century knowledge economy demands a creative and innovative workforce. The interactive entertainment industry is powered by real jobs that develop the most innovative and remarkable technology and entertainment in the world. These high-paying, creative careers build communities all across the US.
Other key findings include:
- Between 2012 and 2014, the number of game company locations grew at an annual rate of 14.1%.
- Between 2013 and 2015, direct employment in the U.S. game company industry grew at an annual rate of 2.9%.
You can read the full report here.
