Riverside County Office of Economic Development Profile
Riverside County offers a diverse landscape with rivers, mountains, deserts, and valleys, providing a unique living experience for over 2.4 million residents, along with access to beaches, Wine Country, desert resorts, and a well-connected transportation network.
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Riverside County Office of Economic Development 3403 10th Street, Suite 400, Riverside, CA 92501 bizinfo@rivco.org | (951) 955-8916 | www.rivcoed.org riverside county office of economic development
W ith rivers, mountain peaks, deserts and fertile valleys, Riverside County offers diversity that few locations can match. Over 2.4 million residents live in the County, taking advantage of nearby beaches, mountains, hiking and bike trails, the Wine Country near Temecula and resorts that offer oasis in the desert. Our mountain adventures provide enjoyment through a variety of activities such as water sports, fishing, and downhill bike riding in the fall months. There are ample opportunities for relaxation, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat. The desert oasis of Palm Springs is world renowned for its resorts and golf courses. Boasting over 100 golf courses, and the famous Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival, it is the go to vacation spot for visitors from around the world and you won’t find a greater selection of world class entertainment. Events include Coachella, Stage Coach, Jazz in Pines, and the Temecula Balloon & Wine Festival. Temecula Valley Wine Country hosts over 50 wineries matched with restaurants and entertainment that is world renowned. Riverside County is home to one of the nation’s most diverse and reliable transportation networks, including highways and express lanes, public buses, commuter rail trains and active transportation options serving bicyclists and pedestrians alike. Our freeway system connects other counties to Riverside County’s businesses, entertainment, and high quality of living. Significant investments have been made on a number of key corridors including State Route 91, Interstate 215, Interstate 10 and State Route 60.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
5 Northwest Region The largest region in terms of population and contains the county’s three largest cities: Riverside, Corona and Moreno Valley. It also includes the cities of Eastvale, Jurupa Valley, Norco, and Perris, along with the unincorporated communities of Home Gardens, Highgrove, and Mead Valley. 8 Southwest Region Includes the cities of Temecula, Murrieta, Lake Elsinore and the unincorporated communities of French Valley, Lakeland Village, Anza, and Wine Country. 9 Hemet-San Jacinto Region The region covers the cities of Hemet and San Jacinto and includes the unincorporated communities of Nuevo, Homeland, Valle Vista, Idyllwild and Winchester. 3 Riverside County Map Exploring the regions of Riverside County. 12 Pass Region Covers the cities of Calimesa, Banning, and Beaumont, along with the unincorporated communities of Cabazon, Cherry Valley, and Whitewater. 13 Coachella Valley & Blythe Region The Coachella Valley includes the cities of Cathedral City, Coachella, Desert Hot Springs, Indian Wells, Indio, La Quinta, Palm Desert, Palm Springs and Rancho Mirage. The Coachella Valley also covers the unincorporated communities of Bermuda Dunes, Desert Edge, Indio Hills, Mecca, North Shore, Oasis, Sky Valley, Desert Palms, Thermal, Thousand Palms, Vista Santa Rosa, and Blythe in the Palo Verde Valley. 15 Regional Advantages 7,300 square mile county stretches from its western border adjacent to Orange County to the Colorado River at the eastern border, adjacent to the Arizona border.
Labor Force California has the largest state workforce with nearly 20 million and is one of only 4 states with a workforce over 10 million people. The region has a top-ranked economy generating billions in production and exports, attracting global companies for their headquarters or regional offices. An integral part of the global economy, with countries exchanging goods and services across borders to meet the needs of consumers worldwide. Riverside County’s exports totaled $4 billion, with top exports including computers and electronic products, transportation equipment, and machinery. 18 Gross Regional Product (GRP) & Industries Riverside County’s thriving economy, driven by its fastest growing industries of healthcare, logistics, and technology, boasts a GRP larger than 13 states and attracts businesses to the area. 25 24 Business Establishments 28 International Trade Facts
29 Population & Income
Riverside County, is the 4 th largest county in California and the tenth largest county in the United States, with a bustling population of 2,449,909 people.
30 Home Price Data
According to the California Department of Finance from January 2023 to January 2024, Riverside County’s housing increased by 23,213 units, ranking as the third fastest growing county in California, after Los Angeles and San Diego. Education Access to education is a top priority in Riverside County, California, as evidenced by the significant number of kindergarten through twelfth grade and college students enrolled. 31
EXPLORING THE REGIONS OF RIVERSIDE COUNTY RIVERSIDE COUNTY MAP Riverside County offers compelling advantages for businesses seeking to relocate or expand, as evidenced by key metrics such as population, residency rates, travel/transportation infrastructure, and overall economic opportunity.
2,478,600
4 TH MOST POPULATED COUNTY IN THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA OUT OF 58 COUNTIES.
RESIDENTS (APPROXIMATELY) LIVING IN RIVERSIDE COUNTY. (Source: US Census)
7,303
3.3%
SQUARE MILES OF OPPORTUNITY.
26% GROWTH FROM 2021 TO 2024 BY GRP. RIVERSIDE COUNTY IS THE FASTEST GROWING LARGE COUNTY IN
CALIFORNIA (Source: US BEA)
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BNSF and Union Pacific Railways are important transportation links for Riverside County businesses and important ports of entry. Riverside County offers easy shipping into and out of ports of Los Angeles, Long Beach, and San Diego. Metrolink provides commuter rail service from Riverside County to Los Angeles, Orange and San Bernardino Counties. DID YOU KNOW...? 0.2% LARGEST & FASTEST
THE INLAND EMPIRE IS ONE OF THE NATION’S LARGEST AND FASTEST GROWING INDUSTRIAL MARKETS. (Source: CoStar)
POPULATION GROWTH BETWEEN 2023 AND 2024 (Source: State of California Department of Finance)
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MAJOR FREEWAYS RIVERSIDE COUNTY OFFERS ACCESSIBILITY THROUGHOUT THE REGION.
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The largest region in terms of population and contains the county’s three largest cities: Riverside, Corona and Moreno Valley. It also includes the cities of Eastvale, Jurupa Valley, Norco, and Perris, along with the unincorporated communities of Home Gardens, Highgrove, and Mead Valley. NORTHWEST REGION DIVERSE INDUSTRIES
The largest concentration of industry in the county, including a large distribution and manufacturing base for Southern California. The region has diversified industries such as transportation and warehousing, healthcare and social assistance, construction and many more are compatible with the type of labor skills available in the region and can utilize the transportation assets. Ways of Travel Access by way of Interstates 15 and 215 and State Routes 60 and 91 provides excellent transportation. The region is served by Ontario International Airport and the ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles. Education and Workforce Resources Experiencing rapid growth due to its diverse
workforce with varying skill levels, a robust higher education system, and its strategic location for service provision. The emergence of on-the-job (OTJ) training programs and other employment initiatives further contribute to this upward trend. The Riverside County Workforce Development Centers (WDC) offer numerous services and programs to support businesses, providing valuable resources at no cost. The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is another resource that offers free business consulting, training, and a wide range of resources in areas such as start-up assistance, securing funding through debt or equity, customer attraction and retention, product commercialization, and more. Both aspiring entrepreneurs and current business owners can benefit from these services and programs.
FASTEST GROWING PRIVATE INDUSTRIES
5-YEAR HISTORY JOB
LOCATION QUOTIENT
CURRENT AVERAGE ANNUAL WAGES
ANNUAL %
JOBS
INDUSTRY
CHANGE
TRANSPORTATION & WAREHOUSING HEALTHC ARE & SOCIAL ASSISTANCE 78,702
$72,845 $44,648 $61,917 $55,089 $74,919 $32,435
1.68 0.97 2.82 0.96 1.09 0.86
2,132 2,603 19,366 18,855 6,754
0.8% 1.1% 6.1% 5.6% 3.2% 4.6%
53,433 49,483 75,592 46,680 39,762
CONSTRUCTION RETAIL TRADE
EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
7,992
ADMINISTRATIVE & SUPPORT & WASTE MANAGEMENT & REMEDIATION SERVICES PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION ACCOMMODATION & FOOD SERVICES
35,321
$44,966
1.11
1,147
0.7%
19,603 32,568 33,630
$82,758 $68,985 $94,052
1.00 0.79 1.34
3,932
2.5% -0.2%
-313
WHOLESALE TRADE MANUFACTURING
1,237
1.3%
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The Northwest Region provides excellent transportation access by way of Interstates 15 and 215 and State Routes 60 and 91.
A prime location for business services. Tourism experienced a rapid growth in 2023 with a total population of 1,111,471 residents.
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Covering the cities of Canyon Lake, Temecula, Murrieta, Lake Elsinore, Wildomar, and Menifee, the region also covers unincorporated communities such as Aguanga, Anza, French Valley, Lakeland Village, and Wine Country. SOUTHWEST REGION
BUSINESS CLIMATE & TOURISM
Business Climate A prime location for business services and tourism experienced a rapid growth in 2023 with the total population of 573,663 residents with a rise in skilled labor, quality schools, a wide range of housing, and numerous commercials services that combine to create a desirable location for residents to live and to work. The fastest growing industries for this region include healthcare and social assistance, accommodation and food services, construction, retail trade, biotechnology, professional services, travel and tourism. Tourism One of the region’s most popular attractions is
the Temecula Valley Wine Country, spanning over 2,460 acres of vineyards with more than 50 wineries. Other attractions like Old Town Temecula, the Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival, championship golf courses, and resort accommodations contribute to the city’s economic profile. Approximately 999,000 visitors stayed in a hotel, motel, or STVR in 2024, a 4.8% increase compared to the previous year. The region witnessed a rise in both overnight stays and day visitors in comparison to 2023.
(Source: Dean Runyan Associates, “The Economic Impact of Travel in Temecula Valley: 2024 Preliminary Estimates)
FASTEST GROWING PRIVATE INDUSTRIES
5-YEAR
JOB CHANGE
LOCATION QUOTIENT
CURRENT AVERAGE ANNUAL WAGES
JOBS
ANNUAL %
INDUSTRY
30,289 30,008 24,641 24,354 38,788 12,530 18,016
$36,775 $45,243 $70,781 $71,529 $54,088 $69,357 $62,101
1.44 1.28 1.69 1.24 1.03 0.66 1.47
5,794 2,477 9,990
4.3% 1.7% 1.3% 2.7% 6.1% 0.7% 8.9%
HEALTH CARE & SOCIAL ASSISTANCE
ACCOMMODATION & FOOD
CONSTRUCTION RETAIL TRADE
1,511
6,277 3,056
EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
TRANSPORTATION & WAREHOUSING
410
MANUFACTURING
ADMINISTRATIVE & SUPPORT & WASTE MANAGEMENT & REMEDIATION SERVICES OTHER SERVICES (EXCEPT PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION PROFESSIONAL, SCIENTIFIC, & TECHNICAL SERVICES
11,806
$48,066
0.81
230
0.4%
10,658
$42,903
1.03
1,572
3.2%
10,216
$73,918
0.58
1,115
2.3%
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The region covers Hemet and San Jacinto Valley including unincorporated communities of Nuevo, Homeland, Valle Vista, Idyllwild and Winchester. HEMET SAN JACINTO REGION
A VITAL COUNTY LINK
Tourism and Adventure Explore numerous captivating places nearby. Start at the Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre, known for its romantic play “Ramona” thrilling audiences for 100 years. Then, visit Diamond Valley Lake Marina for boating, fishing, and e-biking activities. Discover the intriguing history of extinct dinosaurs that once roamed Diamond Valley Lake and experience history featured at the Western Science Center. Finally, reach “Idyllwild”- Pine Cove, a charming destination in the San Jacinto Mountains, home of adventure, music, art and harmony.
Serves as a crucial link between the Northwest Region of Riverside County and the Southwestern and Western regions of the county. In 2025, ESRI reported a total population of 229,806 residents with a median Household Income of $69,241 and a total of 4,086 Businesses . Pivotal Initiatives Situated near wine country, you’ll find diverse opportunities characterized by expansive rural farmland that is in close proximity to several thoughtfully designed residential communities and outdoor recreational areas. The availability of affordable land, along with convenient transportation routes, positions it as a pivotal region for manufacturing and its associated supply chain. As a result, this location presents a promising opportunity for collaborative development initiatives.
FASTEST GROWING PRIVATE INDUSTRIES
5-YEAR HISTORY JOB
LOCATION QUOTIENT
CURRENT AVERAGE ANNUAL WAGES
JOBS 29,911 19,178 19,002 18,072 16,862 7,394 5,027 4,876
INDUSTRY
ANNUAL %
CHANGE
$40,326 $74,499 $45,259 $61,523 $64,640 $70,749 $61,962 $42,395
1.57 1.67 1.34 2.37 1.38 0.88 0.46
3,701 1,770 1,535 6,814 7,282
4.4% 5.7%
HEALTH CARE & SOCIAL ASSISTANCE ACCOMMODATION & FOOD SERVICES
2%
EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
1.8%
RETAIL TRADE
10.9%
TRANSPORTATION & WAREHOUSING
557 442 558
1.6% 1.9% 2.5%
CONSTRUCTION MANUFACTURING
ADMINISTRATIVE & SUPPORT & WASTE MANAGEMENT & REMEDIATION SERVICES PROFESSIONAL, SCIENTIFIC, AND TECHNICAL SERVICES OTHER SERVICES (EXCEPT PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
0.82
3,514
$49,615
0.42
443
2.7%
3,211
$71,561
0.32
510
3.5%
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A crucial transportation route that connects the Northwest Region of Riverside County to the Southwestern and Western regions of the county.
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New residents will bring with them the need for new municipal services, as well as the potential for new investments in business ventures expanding the local economy and creating jobs.
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Covering the cities of Calimesa, Banning, and Beaumont, along with the unincorporated communities of Cabazon, Cherry Valley, and Whitewater. PASS REGION A GROWING ECONOMY
Driving Economic Growth The Pass Region has been experiencing a phenomenal population growth. New residents bring with them the need for new municipal services, as well as the potential for new investments in business ventures expanding the local economy and creating jobs. IIn 2025, ESRI estimates a total of 119,700 residents with a median age of 40.4 years along with 41,323 households for the region. Tourism Expanded destination retail operations adjacent to the Desert Hills Premium Outlets and the expanded Morongo Hotel and
Casino will provide many job opportunities. The proximity to Interstate 10, as well as rail lines, also makes the Pass Region attractive to distribution and large scale industrial uses. Diverse Range A diverse and thriving area in Southern California. Known for its renewable energy focus, it houses extensive wind farms and turbines, generating clean and sustainable power. The region’s fertile soil and favorable climate support a flourishing agricultural sector. The dynamic combination of industries, providing employment opportunities and driving the local economy.
FASTEST GROWING PRIVATE INDUSTRIES
5-YEAR HISTORY JOB
LOCATION QUOTIENT
CURRENT AVERAGE ANNUAL WAGES
JOBS
INDUSTRY
ANNUAL %
CHANGE
$43,024 $43,752 $75,620 $59,710 $79,721 $70,543 $65,292
1.82 1.54 1.81 1.17 2.15 0.76 0.47
1,838 2,834
5.3% 1.2% 1.8% 9.3% 5.2% 1.6% 3.2% 3.4%
ACCOMMODATION & FOOD SERVICE HEALTH CARE & SOCIAL ASSISTANCE
8,029 7,506 7,468 3,001 12,640 2,303 1,868
443 622
RETAIL TRADE
EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
TRANSPORTATION & WAREHOUSING
1,078
CONSTRUCTION MANUFACTURING
172 275
OTHER SERVICES (EXCEPT PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
1,825
$43,013
0.85
280
PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
1.2%
1,622
$92,587
0.67
92
ADMINISTRATIVE & SUPPORT & WASTE MANAGEMENT & REMEDIATION SERVICES
1%
$48,250
0.35
1,077
50
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COACHELLA VALLEY & BLYTHE REGION COACHELLA VALLEY AND PALO VERDE VALLEY
Opportunity for industries and companies that desire a location between the major markets of the Los Angeles and Phoenix metropolitan areas.
MULTI-FACETED ECONOMY Agriculture and Job Growth A multifaceted economy, with various industries contributing to its growth. In 2024, the regions agricultural production was valued at over $860 million, highlighting the significance of Agribusiness in the region. The labor force numbers at 209,856. With 56.2% of it in the prime 25-54 working age group Tourism and Events The Coachella Valley has come back from the COVID-19 pandemic with a strong and vibrant recovery. The region’s tourism industry is one of its most significant economic drivers, with world-class sports events such as the BNP Paribas Open tennis tournament and the LPGA
ANA Inspiration golf tournament returning to almost pre-pandemic levels. The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, the Stagecoach Country Music Festival, and the Palm Springs International Film Festival are other major events that attract hundreds of thousands of people to the region resulting in a significant economic impact. Economic Impact Findings Tourism Economics estimates that In 2024, 14.5 million visitors spent $7.4 billion in the Greater Palm Springs economy, year-over-year increases of 1.0% and 1.1%, respectively. Visitor activity generated a total economic impact of
FASTEST GROWING PRIVATE INDUSTRIES
5-YEAR HISTORY
LOCATION QUOTIENT
JOB CHANGE
CURRENT AVERAGE ANNUAL WAGES
JOBS
INDUSTRY
ANNUAL %
$38,229 $44,409 $73,415 $55,751
1.98 1.23 0.82 1.27
5,660 1,099 1,377 8,743
5%
HEALTH CARE & SOCIAL ASSISTANCE ACCOMMODATION & FOOD SERVICES
35,424 24,313 13,707 40,433
3.5% 0.9% 2.1%
RETAIL TRADE
EDUCATION SERVICES
ADMINISTRATIVE & SUPPORT & WASTE MANAGEMENT & REMEDIATION SERVICES
13,190
$49,382
1.3%
1.07
843
ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT, & RECREATION
3,778
12,820 12,686
2.92 1.03
7.2% 1.5%
$47,508 $69,017
904
CONSTRUCTION
AGRICULTURE, FORESTRY, FISHING, & HUNTING OTHER SERVICES (EXCEPT PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
10,197
$43,748
1.16
1,886
4.2%
-2.7% 0.8%
7,436 7,973
$43,242 $96,305
3.24 0.76
-1,159 294
PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
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Visitors spent $7.4 billion in Greater Palm Springs in 2024. These direct impacts generated an additional $1.7 billion through supply chain (indirect) and income (induced) effects. As a result, the total economic impact of visitors reached $9.1 billion in 2024. The Eastern Region has excellent transportation access through various means. Interstate 10 links Eastern Riverside County with Southern California and southern states, while State Route 86 is a United States-Mexico-Canada (USMCA) freight corridor that connects the Coachella Valley with Mexico. Significant investments have been made in recent years to improve six highway interchanges along the Interstate 10 Coachella Valley corridor. The region is also served by three airports, including Palm Springs International Airport, Bermuda Dunes, and Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport, and Union Pacific rail service traverses the area. $9.1 billion. Direct visitor spending sustained more than 40,000 jobs in the region. All of these workers combined would fill the Acrisure Arena (capacity 11,000) nearly four times.. Diversed Industries Apart from tourism and hospitality, the Eastern Region is home to other important industries like accommodation and food services, healthcare and social assistance, administrative and support and waste management and remediation services along with arts, entertainment and recreation. Native American resorts resorts and gaming operations, along with the region’s nearly 125 golf courses, are also great attractions. Excellent Transportation Access
1.5%
Over the last 10 years Job growth in the region has consistently grown at 1.5% which is greater
The Eastern Region is geographically the largest, covering more than two-thirds of Riverside County. It stretches from the windmills at the entrance to the Coachella Valley, south to the Salton Sea, and east to the Colorado River and Arizona state line. The Coachella Valley includes the cities of Cathedral City, Coachella, Desert Hot Springs, Indian Wells, Indio, La Quinta, Palm Desert, Palm Springs and Rancho Mirage. The Coachella Valley also covers the unincorporated communities of Bermuda Dunes, Desert Edge, Indio Hills, Mecca, Idyllwild/Pine Cove. North Shore, Oasis, Sky Valley, Desert Palms, Thermal, Thousand Palms and Vista Santa Rosa. East of the Coachella Valley are the unincorporated communities of Chiriaco Summit and Desert Center. The Palo Verde Valley area includes the City of Blythe and the unincorporated communities of Mesa Verde and Ripley.
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The options are limitless in this 7,300 square mile county that stretches from its western border adjacent to Orange County to the Colorado River at the eastern border, adjacent to the Arizona border. CALIFORNIA REGIONAL ADVANTAGES
NEVADA
SAN LUIS OBISPO
CALIFORNIA KERN
SAN BERNARDINO
SANTA BARBARA
VENTURA
LOS ANGELES
RIVERSIDE
ORANGE
ARIZONA
SAN DIEGO
IMPERIAL
RELOCATION & EXPANSION
MEXICO
Riverside County is the fourth most populated county in the state of California out of 58 counties and is about the size of New Jersey. With approximately 2,418,185 residents, the county is one of the fastest growing counties in the United States. Accessibility Connected to five major freeways, Riverside County offers accessibility throughout the region. Interstate 10 traverses the entire county from east to west, connecting businesses to Los Angeles and Phoenix. Interstates 15 and 215 connect Riverside County with San Diego and San Bernardino Counties. Both Highway 60 and 91 link Riverside County to (Source: State of California Department of Finance)
Los Angeles and Orange Counties. Highway 86, which is east of the Coachella Valley, is part of a trade corridor providing easy access to Imperial County and Mexico. Did You Know? BNSF and Union Pacific Railways are important transportation links for Riverside County businesses that offers efficient access to shipping in and out of ports of Los Angeles, Long Beach, and San Diego. Metrolink provides commuter rail service from Riverside County to Los Angeles, Orange, and San Bernardino Counties. There are 12 airports within Riverside County and is served by 17 airports. Major air hubs 15
Connected to five major freeways, Riverside County offers accessibility throughout the region. Interstate 10 traverses the entire county from east to west, connecting businesses to Los Angeles and Phoenix.
include Ontario International Airport, serving western Riverside County with quick and easy access, and the Palm Springs International Airport, serving the eastern part of the county. The Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport also serves the Coachella Valley with easy access and is capable of bringing in a Boeing Business Jet 737. The March Inland Port addresses the growing need for economical air cargo services. Industrial Development Thousands of acres of land for industrial development coupled with an expanding workforce make Riverside County an advantageous location for business relocation or expansion. The Inland Empire is one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing industrial
markets. Proximity to nearly 20 million residents living in the Southern California region makes Riverside County an ideal location to build new warehouses and distribution centers. Retail Market Boosted by a strong fourth quarter, annual sales volume of Inland Empire retail properties increased to a three-year high of $1.7 billion in 2025. That total was only exceeded in 2021 and 2022. Over 660 sale transactions closed in 2025, increasing by more than 110 from 2024’s total.. This demonstrates the resilience of Riverside County’s economy and its potential for business growth and expansion. 16 (Source: CoStar)
The county’s fastest growing industries, including healthcare, logistics, and technology, are driving this growth and attracting businesses to Riverside County.
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GROSS REGIONAL PRODUCT & INDUSTRIES Riverside County’s economy is thriving, with a GRP larger than 13 states. The county’s fastest growing industries, including healthcare, logistics, and technology are driving this growth and attracting businesses to the area.
WHAT IS A GRP?
Economic Indicators Gross Regional Product (GRP) is a crucial economic indicator that measures the total monetary value of all goods and services produced within regional borders. It provides insight into the health and growth of a country’s economy and serves as a benchmark for assessing the performance of various industries. In the United States, the top 10 industries by GRP include healthcare, real estate, manufacturing, wholesale trade, finance, construction and among many others. Fastest Growing Industries Riverside County is home to a diverse economy with numerous industries contributing to its
GRP. According to recent data, the fastest growing industries in Riverside County include healthcare, construction, and leisure and hospitality. These industries have experienced significant growth in recent years, creating jobs and opportunities for residents in the area. In fact, Riverside County’s GRP is larger than that of 13 individual states in the U.S., demonstrating the strength and resilience of its economy. As the county continues to attract businesses and investment, its GRP is likely to continue to grow, further cementing its position as an economic powerhouse in Southern California. TOP 1.4% WITH A TOTAL 2024 GRP OF $135 BILLION RIVERSIDE COUNTY IS RANKED 41ST HIGHEST OF ALL US COUNTIES.
LARGER THAN
13 STATES LARGER THAN:
NEW HAMPSHIRE • IDAHO • HAWAII • WEST VIRGINIA • DELAWARE • MAINE • NORTH DAKOTA RHODE ISLAND • ALASKA • SOUTH DAKOTA MONTANA • WYOMING • VERMONT
US Bureau of Economic Analysis, 2023
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TOP 10 INDUSTRIES BY EMPLOYMENT, 2023
In 2024, Health Care & Social Assistance emerged s the largest industry by employment for Riverside County with 142000 jobs. This sector includes a range of services related to healthcare, such as hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and home healthcare services.
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Civilian Employment in Riverside County grew by 16% fro 2021 to 2024. Total Non-farm employment grew by 30% over the same time period. Riverside County continues to outpace the state and many of its peer counties in consistent sustainable growth and resilience. Riverside County is poised for future opportunities.
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Fortune 500 and privately held companies have chosen Riverside County regions as their home for either corporate headquarters or for a regional office.
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BUSINESS ESTABLISHMENTS
The thriving Riverside County economy is home to over 8,000 businesses creating $135 Billion in Gross Regional Product ranking us 41st amongst all US Counties, and $4.9 Billion in International Exports in 2024 alone. With such a noteworthy gross regional product, global companies are flooding the region. Fortune 500 and privately held companies have chosen this region as their home for either corporate headquarters or for a regional office.
TOP 20 EMPLOYERS
(Source: Source: Data Axle, Econovue, Websites & Public Records, 2025)
11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
County of Riverside Amazon State of California Walmart Riverside Unified School District
Temecula Valley Unified School District Mt.SanJacintoCommunityCollegeDistrict Pechanga Resort & Casino Hemet Unified School District Palm Springs USD Murrieta Valley Unified School District Home Depot Starcrest of California Marie Callender Wholesalers Inc. Jurupa Unified School District
Moreno Valley Unified School District Kaiser Permanente Riverside Medical Center Stater Bros University of California, Riverside Eisenhower Medical Center
8. 9. 10.
4 TH
84,756
LARGEST COUNTY AND FASTEST GROWING COUNTY BY NUMBER OF HOUSING UNITS FOR ANY LARGE COUNTY IN CALIFORNIA (Source: State of California Department of Finance)
BUSINESS ESTABLISHMENTS AS OF 2024 ANNUAL DATA (Source: Calif EDD
4 TH
STATE OF CALIFORNIA EMPLOYMENT DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT RANKS RIVERSIDE COUNTY AS THE 4 TH LARGEST CALIFORNIA COUNTY BY NUMBER OF BUSINESSES (Source: State of CA EDD)
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LABOR FORCE
California has the largest state workforce with nearly 20 million and is one of only 4 states with a workforce over 10 million people.
1,181,300 5.3% 2024 ANNUAL EMPLOYMENT (Source: CA EDD) 2024 ANNUAL UNEMPLOYMENT RATE (Source: CA EDD)
1,241,785
14.3 14.3% RIVERSIE COUNTY’S LABOR FORCE GREW BY 14.3% FROM 2015 TO 2024. (Source: CA EDD) LABOR FOURCE (Source: US Census, 2024)
RIVERSIDE COUNTY’S LABOR FORCE
From 2015 to 2024, Riverside County’s labor force grew faster than all other California counties with a population of 1 Million or more. At 14.3% growth Riverside County eclipsed the States growth (4.2%) by more than a factor of 3 and is the fourth largest county workforce in the state.
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Riverside Countys workforce is the 12th largesst of all US Counties. Putting it in the top 0.4%.
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TOP GOODS EXPORT SECOTRS, 2024 RIVERSIDE-SAN BERNARDINO-ONTARIO MSA
$2 BILLION
$2 BILLION
$1 BILLION
$1 BILLION
$2 BILLION
These exports helped to support local jobs and businesses, while also contributing to the growth of the global economy.
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INTERNATIONAL TRADE FACTS An integral part of the global economy, with countries exchanging goods and services across borders to meet the needs of consumers worldwide. In 2024, Riverside County, located in Southern California, played a significant role in international trade as the 36 nd largest Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) exporter in the United States. With a diverse economy that includes industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and logistics, Riverside County’s exports totaled $4.8 billion, with top exports including computers and electronic products, transportation equipment, and machinery. These exports helped to support local jobs and businesses, while also contributing to the growth of the global economy.
GOODS EXPORTS TO SELECT MARKETS, 2024
TOP 3
$8 BILLION $5 BILLION $4 BILLION
APEC
FTA PARTNERS
ASIA
FREE TRADE AGREEMENT PARTNERS
ASIA-PACIFIC ECONOMIC COOPERATION
$11 BILLION 2024 TOTAL INTERNATIONAL GOODS EXPORTS (RIVERSIDE-SAN BERNARDINO-ONTARIO MSA)
36 TH
RIVERSIDE COUNTY WAS THE 36 TH LARGEST IN MSA EXPORTS IN 2024
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POPULATION & INCOME Riverside County is a bustling region in Southern California with a total population of 2,418,185 people. With this number, it holds the distinction of being the fourth largest county in Cali fornia and the tenth largest county in the United States. What sets Riverside County apart is not just its size, but also its growth. In fact, it is one of only two counties in Southern California that has shown positive growth, along with San Bernardino County. From 2021 to 2025 Riverside County is the fastest growing California county with over 1 million population (3%). This makes Riverside County a fast-growing and vibrant community that is constantly evolving and expanding to meet the needs of its residents.
MEAN INCOME STATS
17%
$129,854 MEAN FAMILY INCOME 3
MEAN FAMILY INCOME GREW BY 17% BY 2021 3
TOP 10% PLACES RIVERSIDE COUNTY IN THE TOP 10% OF ALL US COUNTIES 4
$119,245 MEAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME 4
Since 2021 Riverside County has grown by almost 10 times the rate of growth for the state (3.0% vs 0.4%)
2 State of California Employment Development Department, 2026 3 US Census , ACS. 2024 1yr. estimate 4 US Census Bureau, 2020
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39,140
UNITS
From January 1 2021 to January 1, 2025, Riverside County had the third largest growth in Housing units of all California Counties. (CA, DOF, 2026)
$639K MEDIAN PRICE
1 ST
FASTEST GROWING COUNTY
For a single-family residence based on data from the California Association of Realtors (Jan 2026).
According to the California Department of Finance, from 2021 to 2025 Riverside County grew its housing stock by 5%, which was the fastest of all large counties in California
HOME PRICE DATA According to the California Department of Finance, from 2021 to 2025 Riverside County housing stock grew by 5%, which was the fastest of all large counties in California. Riverside county has seen a significant surge in single family housing growth since 2021. The county has increased total housing unit stock by just over 39,000 units. This is the third largest numeric growth of any California county during this time period. Despite this growth, the median cost for a single-family residence in Riverside County remains relatively affordable. According to data from the California Association of Realtors (Jan 2026), the median cost is $639K, making it more affordable than the coastal Southern California counties by up to 120%. This makes Riverside County an attractive option for those looking for a more affordable housing market without compromising on quality of life.
• LA County – RivCo is 40% lower price • Orange County – RivCo is 114% lower price
• San Diego County – RivCo is 57% lower price • Ventura County – RivCo is 50% lower price
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EDUCATION Education is a fundamental right of every child and a cornerstone of a prosperous society. In Riverside County, California, access to quality education is a top priority, as evidenced by the significant number of students enrolled in Kindergarten through twelfth grade (K-12) education. According to the U.S. Census in in 2024, 185,545 residents of Riverside County were enrolled in 4-year undergraduate institutions, highlighting the importance of higher education in the region.
According to the U.S. Census in in 2024 , a total of 444,805 children were enrolled in K-12 education in Riverside County. This substantial number of students is supported by a robust educational infrastructure, including 25 school districts and 505 schools. (ed-data.org,School Year 2023-2024) The provision of quality education is crucial for the development of the next generation, and Riverside County is committed to ensuring that all children have access to the best education possible. Education is not only important for the individual students but also KINDERGARTEN THROUGH TWELFTH GRADE
for the community and the future of Riverside County. The education system plays a vital role in shaping the future of the county, preparing young people to become responsible citizens, and equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to contribute to society. By investing in education, the county can ensure that the youth are well-prepared to become leaders in their respective fields and contribute to the economic growth and development of the region.
SCHOOL YEAR 2023-2024
444,805 25 505 ACCORDING TO THE U.S. CENSUS IN 2022 A TOTAL OF 422,332 CHILDREN WERE ENROLLED IN K-12 EDUCATION IN RIVERSIDE COUNTY. SCHOOL DISTRICTS SCHOOLS
ED-Data.org
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RIVERSIDE COUNTY COLLEGES
Riverside County Education Instituions in 2024, residents 25 years and older have 161,672 professional or doctoral degreees, 284,043 bachelor’s degrees, and 137,554 associate degrees. The number of degrees presents a testament to the county’s commitment to education and the opportunities available for residents to pursue higher education. Higher education not only provides individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in their chosen fields but also contributes to the economic growth and development of the region. Graduates
of higher education institutions are more likely to find high-paying jobs and are better equipped to innovate and contribute to the economy. This, in turn, can attract businesses and industries to the region, creating a more diverse and robust economic landscape. Higher education plays a critical role in shaping Riverside County’s economic development profile. By providing access to quality education, the county is not only investing in the future of its residents but also in the economic prosperity of the region.
161,672 PROFESSIONAL OR DOCTORAL DEGREES Riverside County residents (25 years and older) in 2024 by Riverside County Education Institutions
284,043 BACHELOR’S DEGREES
137,884 ASSOCIATE DEGREES
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www.rivcoed.org
3403 10th Street, Suite 400 Riverside, CA 92501
951.955.8916
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Last Updated: March 4, 2026
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