Local cultural spending in France down 8% since 2019, revised data shows
According to a report from the DEPS of the French Ministry of Culture, cultural expenditures by local governments increased by 0.4% in 2024, yet remain 8% lower than the 2019 figures when adjusted for inflation, amounting to €9.985 billion (€146 per person, representing 4% of local budgets). Operating costs reached €7.656 billion, while investment expenditures were €2.329 billion, showing a 6% increase in investments but a 1% decline in operational spending. Adjusted figures indicate a 1% drop in 2023, which contrasts with the previously stated 4% rise. From 2019 to 2024, municipalities with over 3,500 residents saw a 15% reduction in cultural funding. Regions dedicated 80% of cultural funds to the arts, whereas departments allocated 60% to heritage.
Key facts
- Local cultural spending in France rose by 0.4% in 2024 but remains 8% below 2019 levels.
- Total spending reached €9.985 billion in 2024, or €146 per inhabitant.
- Operating expenditures were €7.656 billion; investment spending was €2.329 billion.
- Investment rose by 6% in 2024, while operating spending fell by 1%.
- The DEPS revised the entire series since 2019 due to the M57 accounting nomenclature.
- Municipalities over 3,500 inhabitants cut cultural spending by 15% between 2019 and 2024.
- Regional cultural spending fell by 8%, while public institutions increased by 7%.
- The M57 nomenclature reclassifies spending: 57% for artistic expressions and cultural action, 42% for heritage.
- Libraries and media libraries account for 18% of heritage spending, museums 11%, non-museum heritage 9%, archives 4%.
- Regions spend nearly 80% on artistic expressions; departments spend 60% on heritage.
Entities
Institutions
- DEPS
- Ministry of Culture
Locations
- France