Southern California, August 29, 2025
News Summary
Southern California’s aerospace industry is set to add 11,000 jobs between 2022 and 2024, driven by a surge in space startups and technological innovations. The average wage for these new positions is $141,110, indicating a strong demand for skilled labor. Companies like Vast and Varda Space Industries are at the forefront of this growth, demonstrating the region’s ability to rebound and innovate despite ongoing challenges. The resurgence highlights a bright future for the aerospace economy in Los Angeles County.
Southern California’s Aerospace Sector Soars with 11,000 New Jobs Amid Space Startup Surge
Southern California’s economy is poised for a significant boost, with the aerospace and defense industries predicted to add 11,000 jobs between 2022 and 2024, according to the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC). This growth is largely fueled by a surge in space-related startups and cutting-edge technology advancements.
The new aerospace jobs will offer an average wage of $141,110, which is more than double the county’s average wage. This salary increase is indicative of the high demand for skilled labor in this rapidly expanding sector. The economic resilience of Los Angeles County has become particularly noteworthy in light of ongoing challenges such as wildfires and economic fluctuations, as highlighted in the 2025 Economic Forecast Report by the LAEDC.
Stephen Cheung, President and CEO of LAEDC, emphasizes that the economic growth projected for 2024 showcases the county’s capability to face future challenges. The SoCal Aerospace Council, a vital component of the LAEDC, works to support the aerospace sector by encouraging collaboration between industry executives, labor organizations, and educational institutions.
Job Creation and Industry Growth
The aerospace industry’s revival is attributed to various technological advancements, including 5G and the Internet of Things (IoT), which enable innovative capabilities for both startups and established companies. The requirements set forth by the Space Force are also creating new opportunities, not only for aerospace businesses but for those in non-aerospace sectors as well.
Companies like Vast are driving innovation by fabricating a potential first commercial space station to orbit Earth in Long Beach, tapping into the region’s aerospace heritage. Others, like Varda Space Industries, are pushing boundaries in pharmaceuticals developed in microgravity, while AstroForge focuses on asteroid mining.
Revitalizing the Aerospace Landscape
The growth of new startups follows a decline that hit the aerospace sector after the Cold War. Southern California boasts a rich aerospace legacy, contributing significantly to the Apollo program and space shuttle production. Although SpaceX, established by Elon Musk in 2002, has shifted its main operations to Texas, it has profoundly influenced the regional space industry. Notably, over 128 companies in aerospace and related fields have been founded by former SpaceX employees, with 63 of these still operating in Southern California.
The recent influx of venture capital from Silicon Valley investors also plays a crucial role in supporting local space startups. For instance, Anduril, a drone and autonomous defense system developer, has recently reached a valuation of $30 billion following a $2.5 billion funding round.
Regional Developments and Future Prospects
Currently, approximately 58,700 jobs exist within the aerospace and defense sectors in Los Angeles County. While this number is lower than historic peaks, the average wages remain high. Long Beach has successfully attracted around 30 advanced manufacturers, including aerospace firms, through strategic zoning changes.
The transformation of Long Beach’s Smoky Hollow neighborhood illustrates a significant shift from a focus on refinery services to becoming a hub for aerospace and high-tech manufacturing. Companies like Varda Space Industries are innovating with automated labs for drug development in microgravity, while AstroForge prepares for missions focused on asteroid mining.
The establishment and success of these companies exemplify the thriving ecosystem in Southern California, rooted in its exceptional history of aerospace engineering and manufacturing.
Conclusion
The future looks bright for Southern California’s aerospace industry as it rebounds with new jobs, innovative startups, and rising wages. With ongoing technological advancements and a supportive economic environment, the region stands ready to solidify its position as a leader in the space economy.
FAQ
What is driving the job growth in Southern California’s aerospace sector?
The job growth is primarily driven by a rise in space-related startups, technological advancements, and requirements from the Space Force.
What is the average wage for the new jobs being created?
The average wage for the new aerospace jobs is $141,110, which is more than double the average wage for the county.
Which companies are leading the way in innovation within the sector?
Companies like Vast, Varda Space Industries, and AstroForge are at the forefront of innovation, focusing on projects like commercial space stations, microgravity pharmaceuticals, and asteroid mining, respectively.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Los Angeles Times: How the New Space Economy is Transforming Southern California
- Bloomberg: Rocket Lab, Space Start-Ups Thrive in SpaceX’s California Wake
- SpaceNews: True Anomaly Opens Long Beach Factory Citing Proximity to Space Force Customers
- Payload Space: SoCal Will Be Space Central, with or without Elon, Experts Say
- New York Times: Defense Aerospace and Commercial Real Estate
- Wikipedia: Aerospace Industry
- Google Search: Southern California aerospace industry
- Google Scholar: Southern California aerospace industry
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Aerospace Industry
- Google News: Southern California aerospace
Author: STAFF HERE HOLLYWOOD
The Hollywood Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHollywood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hollywood, Los Angeles 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 Hollywood Bowl summer concerts, the Hollywood Christmas Parade, film premieres at TCL Chinese Theatre, and festivals at the Magic Castle. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and Visit Hollywood, plus leading businesses in entertainment, dining, and tourism that define the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELosAngeles.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HEREAnaheim.com, and HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
