The economy of New Jersey is closely tied to pharmaceuticals, finance, and transportation logistics. Although those industries remain important, a new and exciting force has emerged as a significant economic driver for the Garden State in 2025: digital entertainment. This large sector contains all things related to gaming and streaming. Not only is it generating revenue and high-tech jobs, but gaming and streaming are also enabling New Jersey to spearhead the modern economy. The way we consume entertainment has undergone significant changes. The demand for on-demand, accessible, and interactive content has skyrocketed, and several of New Jersey’s industries are well-positioned to meet that demand. The state’s location, technology infrastructure, and progressive regulatory environment have created a fertile ground for these digital sectors to grow. Let’s take a look at the leading digital entertainment industries that are making a difference.
The biggest and most lucrative digital entertainment industry in New Jersey is online gaming. Since it was legalized over a decade ago, the state’s iGaming market has evolved into a multi-billion-dollar industry. This includes online casinos, poker, and sports wagering, all of which have experienced year-over-year growth.
The numbers are impressive, but the industry’s economic impact goes much deeper. The taxes generated from online gaming are a vital source of funding for state programs and directly benefit New Jersey residents. Additionally, the industry is a major employer, supporting not only traditional casino jobs through its land-based partners in Atlantic City, but also a growing number of tech jobs. The online casino in New Jersey niche is an excellent example of how smart regulation can create a safe and thriving market. Companies in this space need a skilled workforce of software developers, cybersecurity experts, digital marketers, and data analysts to contribute to a modern and diverse job market in the state.
While online casinos are the gaming consumption side of the digital economy, New Jersey also has a thriving and growing video game development scene. The state has a long history with the video game industry, and in recent years, it has become an attractive location for both established studios and indie developers. This growth is supported by a strong talent pipeline from the state’s universities, which offer programs in game design and development.
The studios bring high-paying creative jobs to the state and help to cement its reputation as a hub for innovation. The industry is not just about entertainment; it’s about pushing the boundaries of technology in areas such as real-time graphics, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality. The economic ripple effect of this industry is significant, as it supports a local ecosystem of creative professionals, ranging from artists and musicians to writers and programmers.
New Jersey is also emerging as a major player in the streaming and digital content industry. The state’s film and digital media tax credit program is a big draw for big film and TV productions. With the rise of streaming giants, there has never been more demand for new content. New Jersey’s diverse landscapes, from urban cityscapes to quiet suburbs and the famous Jersey Shore, provide a backdrop for any production.
Major studios are investing heavily in the state, purchasing new soundstages and production facilities. This surge of activity generates thousands of jobs. Most notably, jobs for actors and directors, along with a whole army of skilled tradespeople, including carpenters, electricians, and caterers, among others. When productions utilize a town, it generates revenue for the local economy. This is because they have to spend on services like hotels, restaurants, and more. New Jersey will become a media hub like New York, but on a much larger scale, as demand for streaming content becomes increasingly paramount.
The esports market has experienced a significant surge in recent years. Esports today is a professional sport with real players and sponsors, featuring large corporate tournaments and substantial prize money. New Jersey aims to establish itself as a significant presence in esports, recognizing the industry's potential.
Atlantic City’s resorts and event spaces would make an ideal location for hosting large-scale esports events. These events attract thousands of visitors, filling hotel rooms and generating economic activity. Esports are giving rise to organizations and training facilities in the state, creating a local ecosystem that supports the growth of this digital sport. With the growing overlap between esports and traditional sports and entertainment, Jersey is positioned to become a player in the new market.
The digital entertainment industries are no longer just a small sector of New Jersey's economy; they are a powerful driver of growth. The multi-billion-dollar success of the iGaming market, the innovative creativity of the video games development scene, and the explosion of streaming production all create jobs, generate revenue, and represent the modern identity of the state’s economy. As technology continues to grow, these elements will only advance.
