A landmark new report has revealed that the region’s music industry contributes £780 million annually to the economy, supports more than 14,000 jobs, and is on a clear trajectory to become a £1 billion sector by 2035.
The Liverpool City Region Music Economy: Toward a £1 Billion Sector provides the most comprehensive analysis ever undertaken of the region’s music industry. It reveals a sector that is significantly larger, more productive and more globally competitive than previously understood.
Funded by the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority through its music industry development pilot, the report was commissioned by Liverpool City Council and builds on five years of sector development by the Liverpool City Region Music Board.
Partners at the University of Liverpool, a key academic and research partner on the industry development programme delivered its findings.
Drawing on detailed analysis of registered businesses, freelancers and the “portfolio” workforce that defines the modern creative economy, the report shows a music sector that outperforms national datasets — supporting more than 7,200 full-time equivalent roles, generating £406 million in GVA, and delivering a total annual economic impact of £780 million.
Beyond the headline figures, the research highlights a distinctive and highly specialised industrial cluster, with strengths in live performance, technical production and music rights.
This ecosystem is anchored by globally recognised organisations, including Sentric Music, Adlib Audio, Ditto Music and the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, alongside a dense network of venues, studios and micro-businesses.
Together, they position Liverpool City Region as one of the UK’s most important music economies outside London.
A Growing Globally Significant Music Cluster
The findings confirm Liverpool City Region as a nationally significant music powerhouse, defined by distinct industrial strengths across several key indicators. Publishing and licensing employment across the region currently stands at nearly seven times the UK average, supported by a thriving live music ecosystem comprising more than 500 active venues.
This infrastructure relies on a highly skilled freelance and technical workforce driving innovation and international exports.
The research also identifies clear opportunities to strengthen artist value capture, expand music business and management services, and accelerate music-tech and innovation activity.
Addressing these specific development areas will help retain more commercial value within the region and support long-term sector growth.
Reaching the projected £1 billion milestone would require annual growth of just 2.5 per cent, which sits below historic UK creative industries growth rates, making the strategic ambition both credible and achievable. T
he finished report provides a robust evidence base for future investment, urban planning, and national policy engagement, reinforcing the case for music as a key driver of inclusive economic growth.
Regional Leaders React to the Economic Evidence
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said:
“Music runs through this city region like a heartbeat, it always has. But this research shows it’s also a sophisticated, export-driven industry creating good jobs and powering growth right here, right now.
“The pathway to a £1 billion music economy is within reach, and this report sets out how we get there.
“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built, and we’re committed to backing this world-class sector for the long term.”
Jon Collins, Chair of the Liverpool City Region Music Board and CEO of LIVE, said:
“Liverpool is rightly celebrated for its musical heritage and vibrant present, but for too long we’ve lacked the robust data to fully demonstrate the scale of the opportunity.
“This report changes that.
“Over the past five years, we’ve seen how targeted support can strengthen the sector’s foundations.
“There is significant headroom for growth, and with continued investment and coordinated action, we can unlock even greater economic and cultural impact.”
Councillor Harry Doyle, Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, said:
“This report underlines just how vital our music sector is, not just to Liverpool’s identity, but to our economy and future growth.
“From grassroots venues to global music businesses, we have a thriving ecosystem that supports thousands of jobs and attracts investment from around the world.
“We’re proud to work alongside partners across the city region to nurture this success.
“By continuing to back talent, innovation and infrastructure, we can ensure Liverpool remains one of the UK’s leading music cities, and a place where creativity drives opportunity for everyone.”
The full economic report, complete with methodologies and sector breakdowns, can be downloaded here.
