1) LARGE MARKET:
The area is a large market in its own right and it is still growing. There are over 4 million residents in the City of Los Angeles. Census Bureau projections to 2025 indicate significant additional growth. In addition, there is quick access to the San Diego, Northern California, Arizona and Nevada markets.

2) DIVERSIFIED ECONOMIC BASE:
There are 19 basic industries in the LA region, with new ones in the process of emerging (full list below).

3) COMPETITIVE COST STRUCTURE:
While it is a major urban area, Los Angeles is competitive cost-wise. Overall operational costs for businesses in the City are very competitive when benefits are factored in. The Mayor’s Office can facilitate important economic incentives, including competitive DWP rates and hiring credits and other tax breaks in state enterprise zones.

4) LARGE, WELL-ESTABLISHED INTERNATIONAL TRADE SUPPORT INFRASTRUCTURE:
In 2004, two-way trade flows through the Los Angeles Customs District totaled $264 billion. The Mayor’s Office of International Trade can provide guidance and broker partnerships with entities like the Foreign Trade Association and the Greater Los Angeles World Trade Center Association that make getting involved in international trade or finding trade leads much easier.

5) A MAJOR FORCE IN TOP INDUSTRIES, INCLUDING ENTERTAINMENT AND MANUFACTURING:
The Motion picture/TV production industry employs over 261,000 people (countywide), and generates receipts of $33 billion. There are over 104,000 people at work in manufacturing and wholesale activities, plus a huge support infrastructure. Los Angeles County is number one in the nation in apparel manufacturing employment, and is a leading source of junior and contemporary fashion.

6) A GOOD ENVIRONMENT FOR ENTREPRENEURS:
Los Angeles has a superb support infrastructure for entrepreneurs, which includes entrepreneur training programs at both UCLA and USC, and a well-developed network of small business development centers. Our LA Business Team can connect you with the various programs and resources in the region.

7) A MAJOR CULTURAL CENTER:
Los Angeles has a significant base in the fine and performing arts, with such flagships as the Getty Museum, the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra, the Museum of Contemporary Art (two locations), and numerous performance locations, including the Music Center in downtown Los Angeles, the Disney Concert Hall, and the famous Hollywood Bowl.

8) A LEADING TOURIST DESTINATION:
In 2004, 24.3 million overnight visitors came to Los Angeles, and spent $12 billion. The area is the location of the “real” Hollywood, which is in the midst of a major renaissance. Many of the major destinations are linked by rail transit.

9) LARGE, WELL-TRAINED WORKFORCE:
Labor force in the 5-county area is more than 8.5 million and a significant percentage has a bachelor’s degree or more. If your business has special training needs, the City’s workforce Investment Board, worksource centers, community colleges and other partners can train workers to your order.

10) THE WEATHER AND GEOGRAPHY:
This is an easy one, with a mean temperature in January of 58.3 degrees and in July of 74.5 degrees, along with an annual rainfall of 14.8 inches, what could be better? And the combination of beaches, desert, and mountains is one you cannot find anywhere else.