The gateway to filming in Northwest Pennsylvania, Erie offers a blend of cinematic awe and inspiring backdrops.
Seeking your next shoot location that strikes a balance between affordability, crew accessibility, and stunning scenery? Film Erie, the newly rebranded Erie PA Film Office, is ready to roll out the red carpet for productions of all sizes. Whether you’re scouting for an indie thriller, planning a TV pilot, or just curious about the creative energy in Northwest Pennsylvania film production, Erie offers both practical resources and small-town charm.
This region isn’t new to the screen. In fact, its lakefront setting, industrial roots and growing arts scene have long made it a favorite for projects that need authenticity. With the launch of Film Erie, the city is doubling down on becoming a destination where filmmakers can work smarter, save money and tap into a community that understands the value of storytelling on screen.
Discover the best film-friendly destinations! Download the latest issue of Destination Film Guide and explore top locations, incentives, and insider production tips—for free!
Erie’s New Unified Film Office
Erie’s film scene has received a major upgrade. The Greater Erie Film Office and the Film Society of NWPA have merged to create Film Erie, a single point of contact for filmmakers. This new structure means faster responses, simplified access to resources and a clear vision for expanding the region’s production footprint.
Jessica Taylor, Director of Film Erie, says, “We want producers to know Erie is open for business, whether you’re here for a day shoot or a full feature.”
Advantages to filming in Erie:
- Pennsylvania offers a 25% base film tax credit, with an additional 5% bonus for qualified production spend in Erie.
- Film Erie now manages a centralized Erie, PA crew directory, connecting productions with local talent and services.
- The office provides guidance on everything from permits to vendors to recommendations.
Explore our in-depth Mid-Atlantic Film Incentives Guide and the Pennsylvania Film Tax Credit Program for more information.
Why Erie Makes Budget Sense
Filming in Erie isn’t just scenic—it’s cost-effective. Compared with major hubs like Pittsburgh or New York, the area’s average lodging rates and permitting costs are noticeably lower. That leaves more of your budget available for production value.
Need a backdrop? Erie offers a wide range:
- Lake Erie waterfront for natural scenes
- Industrial mills and working-class architecture
- Charming small-town main streets for Americana looks
- Historic landmarks such as the Warner Theatre
- Creative spaces like the 1020 Collective
The city’s compact geography is another advantage. Locations that might take hours to reach in a larger metro are often just minutes apart in Erie, saving both time and transportation costs. Add in affordable lodging, low parking fees, and a community of local professionals eager to work, and Erie quickly becomes a wise choice for independent productions trying to stretch their budget.
If you’re wondering how to shoot in Erie, PA, the process is simple—contact Film Erie for permits, crew, and location guidance—all in one place.
Comparing On-Location Costs: Pittsburgh vs. Erie
For many producers, the question isn’t just “Where can I shoot?” but “Where will my budget go the furthest?” Pittsburgh and Erie both offer access to Pennsylvania’s tax incentives, but Erie provides a leaner, more flexible environment that’s often better suited for independent productions or crews seeking quick turnarounds.
| Category | Pittsburgh (Metro Area) | Erie (Northwest Pennsylvania) |
| Tax Credits | 25% base film tax credit (transferable), plus up to 5% | Same Pennsylvania-wide credit: 25% base + up to 5% bonus specifically supported by Film Erie |
|
Film Office Access |
An established Pittsburgh Film Office (since 1990), strong infrastructure and staffing |
Newly unified Film Erie office, streamlined services, crew directory, and local support |
| Permit & Location Fees | Production can involve variable permit costs; experienced infrastructure, but higher competition and costs are likely | Many film permits are free, especially for small productions; additional fees are generally low and negotiated through Film Erie |
| Hotel & Lodging Costs | Average hotel rates range from ~$107 (3-star) to ~$153 (5-star) per night | No specific figures available, but local cost-of-living data suggests significantly lower housing/rental rates compared to Pittsburgh |
| Economic Impact & Incentive Use | Pittsburgh benefits from many large productions, but tax credit funding can cap out early and be unpredictable | Erie shows growing film impact ($16M in spending, 86 jobs), and local agencies are actively promoting fully available incentives |
| On-Location Variety & Logistics | Strong location variety, including urban, industrial, and suburban; established logistics, but often busy | Compact variety—lakes, mills, main streets, landmarks—all within tight geography, lowering travel and prep costs |
The Takeaway
Pittsburgh has ample size and name recognition, but Erie combines flexibility, affordability and a growing cultural scene, making it a strong alternative—especially when tax credits or housing budgets are tight.
Production Resources at a Glance
Film Erie supports filmmakers with more than just locations.
- Crew Directory: Access the Erie, PA, crew directory online to find gaffers, grips, makeup artists, and more.
- Vendors & Rentals: Local suppliers keep productions affordable and efficient.
- Permits: Many permits are processed in just a few days, allowing quick turnaround.
- Guidance: The Film Erie team can help navigate parking, logistics, and scouting.
Upcoming Film Erie Programs
Film Erie doubles as a cultural hub, connecting productions and audiences alike.
- Film 10|20 Series: A weekly showcase of independent cinema at the 1020 Collective. Film 10|20 Weekly Series Erie tickets
- Eerie Horror Fest 2025: Taking place October 10-11 at the Warner Theatre. Submissions are open, and Eerie Horror Fest tickets 2025 are already selling quickly.
- Erie Gives Day: A chance for local supporters to invest in the region’s growing film economy. Contributions help sustain programming year-round and ensure Erie remains on the map for filmmakers.
How to Get Rolling in Erie, PA
Getting started with production in Erie takes just a few steps:
- Contact Film Erie to discuss your project.
- Scout locations online using the searchable gallery of Erie filming locations.
- Apply for the Pennsylvania film tax credit with help from Film Erie staff.
- Source crew and vendors through the Erie, PA crew directory.
- Start your Erie location scouting!
The Final Take: Filming in Erie
From independent film incentives in Northwest Pennsylvania to big-budget features, Erie offers the ideal blend of affordability, local talent and cinematic backdrops. With Film Erie’s unified resources, producers can spend less time managing logistics and more time creating.
Explore more Pennsylvania film destinations in our Incentives Guide, and sign up for the InSite newsletter for updates on festivals, grants, and location opportunities.
Lights. Camera. Erie!
By Lorelei Skurzewski
