The Actor Lives: Where Should I be based?

A post that asks the important question...

"Where should I live to have an acting career?"

Hi Actor,

The short answer is "Wherever you like!". Done. Finished blog. Woohoo that was easy. Now you can continue on with your day and never have to worry about it again.

The longer answer is "it's a little more complicated".

We live in the virtual age of self tape submissions and Zoom call auditions meaning we can be basically audition from anywhere we want to live. If we are based away from the (preferred) city however, we do cut ourselves out from the local hire pool or run the risk of upsetting industry if we miss a flight to get to a costume fitting or set. We also don't get the opportunity to attend local events and can't keep in touch with local film/ theatre makers as easily as if we were just around the corner.

There are also factors to consider surrounding your representation and the relationships they have built with those in your preferred city. Remember that this industry is built on the relationships and rapport of people. So if we aren't actively seeking opportunities within that particular city we run the risk of missing out on a lot of work.

Ask yourself a few questions:

• Does the work that is happening in your current city of residence inspire you?

• Do you feel challenged by those around you to be better than you currently are?

• What location is producing the work you want to be a part of?

• How do all of these factors fit in with what you value (not just in your career but in your personal life)?

If you have representation within the city of your desired work and they have established relationships with casting, producers, directors, writers and other people who might be responsible for giving out "the opportunities" you may be absolutely fine to live in a different city. Otherwise consider a move, even if for 6 - 12 months. Just to establish as many connections as possible. Perhaps a full & permanent relocation is the decision you come to. The point I want to get across is to consider all the factors. Don't go off what one person said, gather info from people in different cities and use it to make an informed decision.

Lastly I would just like to say, there are no rules to any of this. Only Pros and Cons. You need to make the informed decision for yourself. If one person is saying "you MUST move to another city" don't listen to them. No one "knows". If you are a part of a city with a smaller industry, ask yourself "Can I use it's small size to my advantage"? There can be huge benefits to being in a smaller industry but there is also benefits for just the opposite. Many. Let me know in the comments if you have relocated yourself and mention how that effected your work/ life. Or as always, reach out directly. Talk Soon.

Talk soon,

Lachy

Lachlan is an Australian Actor who has been working within the industry nearing a decade. He’s worked in Film & Theatre.

© Lachlan Stuart 2025