23 Best Cities for Artists in 2025 to Actually Make Art (and a Living)
Artists need more than gallery walls. The best cities for artists have energy, community and enough breathing room to make things happen. Some are packed with museums and murals. Others keep it low-key with cheap studio space, local grants or just a good crowd to hang with at open mic nights.
You’ve got your big names like New York and Paris, but there’s a whole world of cities that support creative work in quieter, more affordable ways. WalletHub’s rankings show more artists are moving to places with solid arts and recreation programs, live music scenes and a real chance to be part of something. And as the National Endowment for the Arts points out, artists help build stronger neighborhoods too, not just galleries, but schools, parks and public life.
Some of these cities are great for setting up long-term. Others are perfect for residencies, short bursts of inspiration or even just a reset when you need one. From big metros to small towns with big vision, these cities make room for creativity in all its forms.
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- Living as an Artist vs Visiting for Art
- How Artists Shape Creative Communities
- Best Cities for Artists Around the World
- Best Cities for Artists in the U.S.
- Small and Mid-Size Cities for Artists Making Big Moves
Living as an Artist vs Visiting for Art
Some cities are perfect for a weekend gallery crawl. Others are built for long-term creative growth. Living as an artist means thinking beyond museums — you’re looking for affordable rent, studio access, job opportunities and maybe even public funding.
That’s why cities like Asheville, Tucson and Omaha keep popping up. They offer space to work, a local network and lower costs than traditional art hubs. For emerging artists, these spots can be ideal for building a career without burnout.
But if you're planning a short-term trip, don’t count out the big names. Places like Paris, New York and London still deliver a creative jolt, even if you’re just passing through. In fact, the UBS Art Market Report shows that these cities remain central for gallery sales and collector interest, which is great if you’re networking, shopping for art or just looking for a spark.
How Artists Shape Creative Communities
Artists don’t just respond to a city’s culture — they shape it. The neighborhoods that attract painters, musicians, dancers and designers often become the ones that attract everyone else next. That’s why cities that support their artists early, with studio space, community grants or even relaxed zoning rules, often see bigger long-term cultural payoffs. Artists create more than art — they create momentum. And the cities that make space for them tend to be more connected, more resilient and a little more fun.
Best Cities for Artists Around the World
1. New York City, New York
No surprise here — NYC is still the answer to “What is the best city to live in if you are an artist?” The city is packed with artists of all kinds, from the fine arts to fashion, film and design. You’ll find hundreds of galleries, artist-run spaces, collectives and public art, not to mention the country’s top design schools and residencies. The downside is that it’s competitive, expensive and occasionally overwhelming, but the momentum is real. For creatives ready to hustle, it doesn’t get better.
Not ready to commit full time to the city? Or just passing through? Immerse yourself in the city’s artistic side with dance classes, photography classes or let it all go with a paint and sip in NYC.
2. Paris, France
No list of the best cities for artists would be complete without Paris. From Monet to Chanel, it’s one of the most famous cities for artists, and it still draws talent from around the globe. But it’s not all classical. Younger artists are shaking up the scene in Belleville and Montreuil, with DIY galleries and open studio events.
The city’s walkability, museum access, and endless inspiration make it one of the best cities for artists in Europe, whether you’re into classical painting or street art.
3. London, England
London blends old-world charm with cutting-edge creativity. You’ve got places like the Tate Modern and Southbank Centre, plus smaller spaces scattered across East London. It’s not cheap, but it’s still one of the best cities for artists in the world when it comes to opportunity, exposure and access to global networks.
If you’re worried that things in the U.K. might be too old-fashioned for your tastes, don’t forget to check out South London and other alternative galleries and collectives in South London and Hackney.
It’s one of the most famous cities for artists in Europe, especially for those working across media or with a political edge. Plus, with loads of public funding and global exposure, it’s a solid launchpad for emerging creatives.
4. Barcelona, Spain
Gaudí’s fingerprints are everywhere, and the city has a way of pulling you in. Compared to other Western European cities, Barcelona offers an affordable lifestyle and it’s packed with galleries, public art and creative co-ops. Artists here don’t just pass through; many stay to build something. The mix of tradition and experimentation makes it a favorite for young artists, especially in visual arts and installation. Living in or visiting Barcelona could really help you learn how to find your art style.
Best Cities for Artists in the U.S.
5. Los Angeles, California
From film to fine art, LA is where creativity meets commercial success. It’s more spread out than New York, but more laid-back too. You’ll find artist collectives in old warehouses, murals in every neighborhood and a supportive community that isn’t afraid to collaborate. From Hollywood sets to murals in Silver Lake, the city breathes art.
There are also loads of hidden gems in Los Angeles for artists to explore and you’ll find affordable cities for artists nearby too, like Long Beach and Highland Park, which offer lower rents and thriving local scenes.
Want to get in on the action? Get started with art classes, dance classes or photography classes in Los Angeles.
6. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is one of the most affordable cities for artists in the U.S., which still gives you big-city energy. You’ll find a wide variety of artist-run galleries, street art, theater and a solid public arts program. You don’t have to be rich to make a life in the arts and the community shows up for each other.
While you’re visiting or planning your move, get a feel for things with photography classes or a paint and sip in Chicago.
7. Atlanta, Georgia
It might seem counterintuitive to include Atlanta on a list of best cities for artists, but this growing Southeastern city is home to great music and is a new hub for the film industry. There’s funding, there are jobs, and there’s a vibe that’s more inclusive and experimental than other major cities. It’s one of the best cities for emerging artists who want room to grow without the pressure of an already saturated market.
8. Miami, Florida
With events like Art Basel and neighborhoods like Wynwood, Miami is no longer an art-world afterthought. It’s flashy and fast-changing, but it’s also deeply international. If you’re working in murals, digital art or mixed media, there’s plenty of room to explore. It’s also a great short-term stop if you want sun and art in equal measure.
9. Houston, Texas
Houston is a wildcard, but it’s earning its spot. With major museum expansions, studio grants and a growing creative economy, it’s quietly becoming one of the best cities for emerging artists. And for artists here, the cost of living makes it possible to create full time.
Even if you aren’t planning to make a move to Houston, it’s worth a three-day weekend to get your hands dirty with paint and sip classes, art classes or pottery classes in Houston.
Small and Mid-Size Cities for Artists Making Big Moves
10. Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville punches above its weight in the arts. With galleries, studios and artisan markets tucked into the Blue Ridge Mountains, it’s one of the most artsy towns in the U.S. Artists looking for creative freedom without sky-high rent are flocking here. The mountains, the music, the makers’ scene — it’s all here. You’ll find galleries, open studios and a community that shows up for local artists.
11. Omaha, Nebraska
Surprisingly, one of the best cities for artists to live in the United States is Omaha, Nebraska. This midwestern city is home to some hidden artistic gems, like performing arts centers, unique murals and galleries. Its mid-range size and central geographic location make it a great option for artists in different media. Between performance spaces and public murals, there’s no shortage of inspiration.
12. Tucson, Arizona
With its desert palette and rich Native American and Latinx heritage, Tucson has become a favorite for painters and photographers. The natural light and surrounding landscapes have provided inspiration for many well-known artists, like Ansel Adams, for example. It’s one of the best cities for painters and photographers. No matter what paint mediums you use, or if you prefer pour painting or using traditional brushstrokes, Tucson is a great place to explore your options.
13. Portland, Maine
Portland’s art scene is cozy but serious and it’s possibly one of the most creative cities in the U.S. It’s the kind of place where everyone knows your name, and it’s packed with creative shops, co-ops and ocean views. If you’re looking to get involved fast without big-city pressure, this one’s worth a look.
14. San Francisco, California
If you’re looking for a city in California that’s not as large as L.A. but still has everything California has to offer, why not consider San Francisco? While not as affordable as it once was, it still gives artists access to powerful networks, experimental art spaces and cultural institutions making it one of the best cities for artists in the U.S. in terms of opportunity.
15. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston offers history, higher education and a mix of classical and contemporary art. It’s a great city for artists with an academic streak, and you’ll never run out of galleries, events or places to show your work. This historical hub has plenty of inspiration for new and experienced artists alike, with contemporary galleries or the Gardner Museum, which was the site of a famous heist.
16. Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas can be more than just a fun bachelorette party destination. This desert oasis is also one of the best cities for artists. The surprising thing about the Vegas art scene is that most of the art is from emerging artists, making it a place to discover real, raw talent. If you’re interested in exploring different media, you could try taking dance classes in Las Vegas, like belly dancing, salsa or hip hop.
17. Nashville, Tennessee
Music leads the way here, but visual arts are growing too. You can find singers and songwriters on almost every street in Music City, and if you’re hoping to get discovered as a musician, there’s really no better place to be. Nashville is one of the best cities for creative jobs in the Southeast.
18. Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Most people wouldn’t think of Cedar Rapids as one of the best cities for artists in Iowa, but this small city hosts a surprisingly diverse art scene, with Bohemian and Czech influences that will be a great source of inspiration for painters, sculptors and other artists. It’s an affordable option for artists looking to build something local, with less competition and more room to stand out.
19. Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Sioux Falls might not be flashy, but it supports its artists with festivals, galleries and community spaces. It’s home to great galleries and outdoor performance spaces and is a great addition to this list of best cities for artists. You’ll love the scenery in South Dakota, and your artistic talents will bloom in this unique city.
20. Bloomington, Illinois
Bloomington’s small-town feel comes with a surprising number of galleries, community art programs and access to regional markets. You’ll find intimate galleries and a whole square devoted to museums in the downtown area.
21. Bend, Oregon
Nature lovers will feel at home in Bend with its local outdoorsy art scene. Between the Deschutes River and the Cascade Mountains, Bend is a notoriously beautiful city, which makes it one of the best cities for painters. Your landscapes will take on new life in this beautiful but manageable city. If you aren’t ready to make the move full-time, a trip to Bend would be a beautiful vacation for yourself or as a gift for artists.
22. Charlottesville, Virginia
Home to a strong fine arts programs and a mix of classical and contemporary performance venues, Charlottesville punches above its size. And this small city isn’t lacking any of the opportunities of the bigger cities on the list. Charlottesville is one of the best cities for artists, with ballet, opera and plenty of other fine arts experiences for both emerging and experienced artists. You’ll love the small-city feel while still gaining big-city experience.
23. Napa, California
Yes, there’s wine, but Napa also supports a vibrant artisan community. Textiles, ceramics and fine art all have a home here. You’ll quickly find that there is more to the city than just exploring the best wineries in Napa. Of course, you can sample the offerings at the wineries scattered all over the Valley, but Napa is also a hub for creatives from all walks of life.
The best cities for artists aren’t just defined by big names or established art scenes. Some offer walkable neighborhoods packed with murals and performance spaces. Others give artists room to breathe — with affordable housing, open studios and a tight-knit network of fellow creatives.
From Paris to Houston to Los Angeles, artists are finding places that meet their needs without compromising their vision. These aren’t just places to work — they’re places to grow, connect and contribute.
The right city can offer more than opportunity. It can offer community, momentum and a reason to keep creating.
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