Author: Kimberly Wright, Economic Development Manager, Riverside County Economic Development Department
Spanning a vast 7,303 square miles, Riverside County is a hotspot for business and innovation. Nestled conveniently close to economic giants like Los Angeles and San Diego counties, as well as major ports, businesses in Riverside County benefit from its strategic location. The county doesn't just rely on its location; it thrives thanks to a skilled workforce, with many graduates from the region’s 18 colleges and universities. Businesses may benefit from a host of supportive programs—from state tax incentives and startup assistance to expert guidance—that make it an ideal place for companies to expand.
Many top-tier companies have selected Riverside County for critical operations. The local economy is impressively diverse, stretching from tourism—with gems like Temecula Valley Wine Country and Greater Palm Springs —to industries such as education, automotive manufacturing, healthcare, and aerospace.
Riverside County also has a rich history of innovation, starting with the cultivation of the famous California Navel Orange that transformed the citrus industry over a century ago. Today, that innovative spirit is alive and well. The county buzzes with investors, visionaries, and entrepreneurs, all drawn by its thriving ecosystem of Innovation Centers.
The county's commitment to innovation doesn't stop there. It's a leader in Clean Energy, Health Tech, Life Sciences, AgTech, and Climate Tech, supported by nine innovation centers and the University of California, Riverside (UCR), the region’s only top-tier research and development institution. This blend of cutting-edge facilities and a dynamic tech ecosystem positions Riverside County as a frontrunner in innovation.
Riverside County is on the move, experiencing rapid growth, from 2017 to 2022, Riverside County’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by 37.2%. Since 2017, GDP from professional, scientific, and technical services have increased by 40.1% and all private industries have grown by 40.9%. This made Riverside County the fourth fastest growing large county in California and spells opportunity for entrepreneurs eager to push the boundaries of their businesses. The local tradition of research and excellence, fostered by universities and innovation centers, fuels the business ecosystem and drives job creation.
More than just a place to reside, Riverside County is a community where you can innovate, grow, and lead. With a steadfast commitment to creating a supportive and vibrant environment for businesses, it continues to shine as a beacon of innovation and economic vitality.
For more information about Riverside County and the Riverside County Office of Economic Development, please visit and explore these links:
Riverside County
Riverside County Office of Economic Development
Demographics Portal
Riverside County Innovation.
Kimberly Wright, Economic Development Manager, Riverside County Economic Development Department, Riverside, California