Southern California, August 29, 2025
News Summary
Southern California’s aerospace and defense sector is set to add 11,000 jobs between 2022 and 2024, driven by a surge in space startups. These positions offer an average annual wage of $141,110, showcasing the region’s economic resilience. Organizations like the SoCal Aerospace Council are fostering collaboration to support growth in this industry. Key technological advancements, combined with a rich aerospace legacy, are transforming Long Beach into a hub for innovation and advanced manufacturing. This revitalization reflects a robust response to past economic challenges and signifies a promising future for the region’s aerospace workforce.
Southern California’s Aerospace Sector Soars with 11,000 New Jobs Amid Space Startup Surge
Southern California is witnessing a remarkable expansion in its aerospace sector, with projections indicating the creation of 11,000 new jobs in the aerospace and defense industries between 2022 and 2024. This development is largely fueled by an influx of space-related startups that are revitalizing the region’s economy, as reported by the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC).
These new positions are expected to offer an average annual wage of $141,110, significantly higher than the county’s average wage. This surge in job creation is indicative of the resilience of Los Angeles County’s economy, which has remained robust despite various challenges, including wildfires and other economic uncertainties.
Stephen Cheung, who serves as the President and CEO of the LAEDC, noted that the economic growth projected for 2024 serves as a testament to the county’s ability to face future challenges head-on. The growth can be attributed in part to the efforts of the SoCal Aerospace Council, which promotes collaboration between industry executives, labor organizations, and educational institutions to foster a competitive aerospace industry.
Impact of Technological Advancements
Technological innovations such as 5G and the Internet of Things (IoT) are playing a pivotal role in benefiting the space industry. These advancements enable startups to unlock new capabilities, allowing both established companies and emerging businesses to thrive. Moreover, the shifting technological requirements of the Space Force are generating additional opportunities for companies in the aerospace sector and beyond.
Among the new companies making waves in the area, Vast is leading the charge with plans to fabricate the first commercial space station to orbit Earth in Long Beach, capitalizing on the region’s rich aerospace heritage. In another innovative venture, Varda Space Industries is conducting experiments with pharmaceuticals developed in microgravity, while AstroForge aims to become a key player by mining platinum from asteroids.
A Rich Aerospace Legacy
Southern California boasts a storied history in aerospace, having made significant contributions to pivotal programs like the Apollo missions and space shuttle production. The resurgence of the region’s aerospace sector follows a decline that ensued after the Cold War, creating an ecosystem ripe for innovation.
The impact of SpaceX, founded by Elon Musk, cannot be understated; although its primary operations have relocated to Texas, the company has inspired the establishment of over 128 new companies in aerospace and related fields by former SpaceX employees—63 of which are still operational in Southern California. The incoming venture capital, particularly from major Silicon Valley investors, has bolstered the growth of local space startups.
One such success story is Anduril, a developer of drone and autonomous defense systems in Costa Mesa that reached a valuation of $30 billion following a recent funding round of $2.5 billion. Currently, there are approximately 58,700 jobs in aerospace and defense within Los Angeles County. These numbers, while lower than historic peaks, are accompanied by lucrative average wages.
Transformed Communities
Long Beach has emerged as a hotspot for advanced manufacturing, attracting around 30 advanced manufacturers, including several aerospace firms, due to strategic zoning changes. This shift has transformed the Smoky Hollow neighborhood into a dynamic hub for aerospace and high-tech manufacturing. Varda Space Industries, for instance, is at the forefront of creating automated labs for drug development in microgravity, focusing on innovative pharmaceutical formulations.
As the region continues to embrace its aerospace legacy, companies like AstroForge aim to push the boundaries further, leading missions aimed at asteroid mining and contributing to a burgeoning space economy.
FAQ
What are the expected job gains in Southern California’s aerospace sector?
The aerospace and defense industries in Southern California are projected to create 11,000 new jobs from 2022 to 2024.
What is the average wage for new aerospace jobs?
The average wage for these new aerospace jobs is $141,110, which is more than double the average wage in Los Angeles County.
How has technology influenced the aerospace sector in Southern California?
Technological advancements such as 5G and the Internet of Things (IoT) are enabling new capabilities for space startups, leading to further job creation and innovation in the field.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Projections | 11,000 new jobs expected in aerospace and defense industries |
| Average Wage | $141,110, significantly higher than the county average |
| Former SpaceX Impact | Over 128 companies established by ex-SpaceX employees |
| Technological Influence | Advancements in 5G and IoT enhancing capabilities |
| Strategic Zoning Changes | Long Beach attracting advanced manufacturers |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Los Angeles Times: How the New Space Economy is Transforming Southern California
- Wikipedia: Aerospace Industry
- Bloomberg: Rocket Lab, Space Start-Ups Thrive in SpaceX’s California Wake
- Google Search: Aerospace companies in California
- Site Selection: Why Aerospace Companies Are Thriving in California
- Google Scholar: Aerospace Economy in California
- SpaceNews: True Anomaly Opens Long Beach Factory Citing Proximity to Space Force Customers
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Aerospace
- New York Times: Defense, Aerospace, and Commercial Real Estate
- Google News: Space startups California
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
