Ashland, Oregon Named One of the Best Places for Moviemakers to Live and Work in 2026

Ashland, Oregon is gaining national attention as a rising hub for filmmakers, earning the No. 10 spot on a list of the best small towns and cities for moviemakers to live and work in 2026. Known for its scenic landscapes, thriving arts community, and supportive film incentives, the Southern Oregon city is increasingly attracting independent creators and production companies alike. Nestled near the California border and surrounded by towering forests, Ashland has long been celebrated for its cultural scene, particularly the renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival. But beyond theater, the city has quietly become a welcoming destination for film and media production. A wide range of projects—from independent shorts and documentaries to stop-motion animation and feature productions—have found a home in Ashland’s creative environment. Productions such as Bruce Campbell’s Ernie & Emma have helped highlight the region’s potential as a filmmaking destination. Oregon’s competitive film incentives are a major draw for producers considering Ashland. The state offers a 25 percent rebate on goods and services and a 20 percent rebate on labor for qualifying productions. Projects that film primarily outside the Portland metro area—including those in Ashland—can receive even larger incentives, with rebates increasing to 27.5 percent for goods and services and 22 percent for labor. Filmmakers also benefit from the state’s lack of sales tax and the ability to film in Oregon state parks without additional fees. Ashland’s reputation as a creative center is expected to grow even further thanks to a major investment in film infrastructure. The state recently approved $40 million in capital construction funding for a new Creative Industries Complex at Southern Oregon University. The university, already recognized as one of the best film schools in the United States and Canada, will expand its offerings with facilities designed to support both students and professional filmmakers. The upcoming complex will feature a new soundstage, digital design laboratories, and a large screening room. These resources will be available to local filmmakers and production teams, providing professional-grade tools and spaces to develop projects from concept to completion. With its combination of natural beauty, a strong arts culture, and growing film infrastructure, Ashland is positioning itself as a standout location for storytellers. As more productions look beyond major metropolitan areas for cost-effective and visually striking filming locations, this Southern Oregon town is proving that big creative opportunities can thrive in smaller communities.