Los Angeles County, a vibrant and diverse region with one of the largest economies in the world, serves as an economic powerhouse driven by a range of dynamic industry sectors. From the iconic entertainment industry to rapidly growing tech and sustainable energy sectors, LA County boasts a unique mix of traditional and emerging industries that fuel economic growth and job creation. Here’s an in-depth look at the top industry sectors making LA County a hub of innovation, creativity, and business.
1. Entertainment and Media
As the entertainment capital of the world, Los Angeles is synonymous with Hollywood and the global film and television industry. Beyond traditional film and television, LA has become a center for digital media, gaming, streaming services, and content creation, drawing talent from around the world. Major studios like Warner Bros., Disney, and Universal call Los Angeles home, as do streaming giants like Netflix and Hulu. The entertainment industry supports over 500,000 jobs in LA County, spanning roles from production and post-production to marketing and digital distribution.
Recently, the industry has rebounded robustly from the pandemic, with surges in digital content demand. However, labor disputes such as the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes have also underscored evolving challenges, emphasizing the industry’s complex dynamics and adaptability.
2. Technology and Innovation
Los Angeles County is emerging as a technology hub, with sectors like artificial intelligence, biotech, and clean tech experiencing rapid growth. Known as “Silicon Beach,” the tech scene in West LA, including areas like Santa Monica, Venice, and Playa Vista, hosts hundreds of tech startups and established companies like Google, Snapchat, and Amazon Studios. In recent years, venture capital investment in LA tech has surged, reaching over $8 billion annually, as investors recognize the potential of startups in software development, e-commerce, and health tech.
Fueled by post-pandemic expansion, LA’s tech industry continues to draw substantial investment and support job creation, particularly in software and biotechnology. The region’s tech ecosystem, with strong roots in clean tech, medical innovation, and digital commerce, continues to attract both venture capital and talent.
3. Aerospace and Defense
Aerospace has been a cornerstone of Los Angeles’ economy for decades, and the industry remains one of LA County’s largest employers, supporting more than 85,000 high-skilled jobs. Industry leaders like Northrop Grumman, Boeing, Raytheon, and SpaceX operate in the region, developing cutting-edge technology in aviation, defense, and space exploration. LA County’s aerospace sector continues to thrive with substantial investments in space technology, fueled by private companies and public-sector contracts from NASA and the Department of Defense.
Bolstered by new initiatives in space exploration, the aerospace sector continues to lead innovations in satellite technology, defense, and commercial space travel, supporting LA’s strong high-tech manufacturing workforce.
4. Fashion and Apparel
Los Angeles is a major player in the global fashion industry, known for its influence in streetwear, luxury, and eco-conscious apparel. The LA Fashion District spans over 90 blocks in downtown Los Angeles, serving as a hub for wholesale and retail apparel, textiles, and accessories. Iconic brands such as Guess, Forever 21, and Reformation originated in LA, and the city continues to attract emerging designers and fashion tech startups.
Post-pandemic, LA’s fashion sector has adapted to changing consumer behavior by investing in e-commerce and sustainable practices. With a focus on ethical sourcing and eco-friendly production, LA remains at the forefront of fashion innovation, merging creativity with environmental consciousness.
5. International Trade and Logistics
With the busiest port complex in the United States, Los Angeles County is a major player in international trade and logistics. The Port of Los Angeles and Port of Long Beach together handle over 40% of the nation’s cargo, connecting LA with Asia, Latin America, and beyond. This industry supports more than 500,000 jobs in the region, including roles in shipping, warehousing, and logistics management.
Post-pandemic, LA’s trade and logistics sector has made strides toward sustainability, implementing clean truck programs and advanced technologies to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impacts, further solidifying its role in global commerce.
6. Tourism and Hospitality
Tourism is a major economic driver in Los Angeles, attracting millions of visitors each year to iconic attractions like Hollywood, Santa Monica Pier, Griffith Observatory, and Disneyland. Before the pandemic, LA welcomed nearly 50 million visitors annually, contributing over $25 billion in direct spending. Although the pandemic affected this sector, tourism is rebounding with the return of international travelers, conventions, and major events.
With tourism numbers rising, the tourism and hospitality industry is preparing for a boom, especially with the 2028 Summer Olympics on the horizon, which promises to bring significant economic activity and global attention to Los Angeles.
7. Health and Life Sciences
Los Angeles has a robust healthcare and life sciences industry, home to world-renowned hospitals, research institutions, and biotech companies. Major healthcare providers such as Cedars-Sinai, UCLA Health, and Kaiser Permanente play a central role in LA’s healthcare infrastructure, providing care and employment for thousands. The life sciences sector in LA County employs over 100,000 people and continues to grow, driven by advancements in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices.
The pandemic underscored the importance of the health sector, driving investment in medical research and healthcare services. LA’s focus on biotech and medical innovation has positioned it as a critical contributor to national healthcare advancements.
8. Real Estate and Construction
Real estate and construction are pivotal to Los Angeles County’s economy, driven by ongoing demand for housing, commercial spaces, and infrastructure projects. LA’s growing population has fueled a surge in residential developments, while commercial projects continue to expand, particularly in areas like Downtown LA and the San Fernando Valley. The real estate sector supports a wide range of jobs, from property management and architecture to construction and urban planning.
LA’s construction and real estate market has shown resilience, with major projects underway to support both residential demand and infrastructure expansion as the city prepares for the 2028 Olympics.
9. Education and Research
Los Angeles County is home to prestigious universities and research institutions, including UCLA, USC, and Caltech, which play a major role in LA’s economy. These institutions not only educate future professionals but also drive innovations in science, technology, and medicine. The education sector employs tens of thousands of people, including faculty, administrators, and researchers, contributing to LA’s economic and intellectual capital.
Research partnerships and collaborations across biotech, engineering, and environmental science ensure that education and research continue to be at the core of Los Angeles’ long-term resilience and intellectual leadership.
The pandemic prompted an accelerated transformation across Los Angeles County's industry sectors, with each adapting to meet new economic, social, and technological demands. From expanding sustainable practices in trade and logistics to a surge in digital media production and tech innovations, Los Angeles County is well-positioned to thrive in the global economy. Each of these sectors not only reinforces the county’s economic strength but also highlights LA’s ability to lead in a rapidly changing world.
With its unique blend of industry diversity, strategic initiatives, and resilient workforce, Los Angeles County is set to remain an economic powerhouse and an ideal environment for business innovation and growth.
Brand LA | Editors