live nation building 18 new and revitalized venues across the United States

Photo Credit: Live Nation

Live Nation has announced it is investing $1 billion to build 18 ‘new and revitalized’ live music venues to bring more shows to smaller cities across the United States.

According to Oxford Economics, this capital investment will spur $2.9 billion in total economic impact, including spending on engineering, development, and construction. That comes along with a $1.4 billion annual economic impact for local communities where the venues will be welcoming music fans.

In the next 18 months, Live Nation Entertainment will open doors or break ground on 18 new venues ranging from intimate clubs to large outdoor amphitheaters. Communities that are getting these new venues include:

  • Allentown, PA
  • Atlanta, GA
  • Birmingham, AL
  • Denver, CO
  • Indianapolis, IN
  • Memphis, TN
  • Milwaukee, WI
  • Nashville, TN
  • Orlando, FL
  • Portland, ME
  • Portland, OR
  • Pittsburgh, PA
  • Raleigh, NC
  • Richmond, VA
  • Riverside, MO
  • Seattle, WA
  • Shakopee, MN
  • Virginia Beach, VA

Live Nation says it has more optimism about the live entertainment industry than ever before, driven by long-overdue ticketing reforms, growing fan demand, and a strong economy. The company has voiced its full support for Trump’s executive order targeting ticket scalpers—aimed at reducing the $10 billion siphoned from consumers each year.

“Our mission is simple: help artists deliver more unforgettable live experiences—and in doing so, create jobs, revive cities, and lift up the communities we touch,” adds Live Nation CEO Michael Rapino. “As an American company, we drive impact here at home while also helping elevate and export the very best of what this nation represents—freedom, creativity, grit, and boundless possibility.”

Live Nation venues have hired 37,000 U.S. workers this year to further expand fan access to the magic of live music. The company is also continuing its efforts to provide over one million tickets to summer shows across the nation for just $30. Live Nation says its portfolio of 150 premier venues in the United States represents roughly 4% of all music venues nationwide.