San Diego's North County Manufacturers Generate Billions

A recent study, conducted by the San Diego Regional EDC, found that North County Manufacturing is a key component of the regional economy: Manufacturing in North County has an enormous economic impact, totaling $18 billion annually, which represents more than seven percent of San Diego County’s economy.

Employment is concentrated in high-value goods: Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing lead North County’s Manufacturing industry, employing 12,746 people—nearly one-third of all Manufacturing jobs in North County. With projected job growth of nearly six percent in the next five years, high-value goods production will remain a key facet of North County’s economy.

COVID has increased manufacturers need for space: While some manufacturers in North County were hit hard by COVID in 2020, others have increased their revenues and added employees during the pandemic. Most (58 percent) firms surveyed expect an increase in their physical space going forward.

Through automation, globalization and COVID-19, North County's Manufacturing industry continues to show signs of resiliency. All indications are that Manufacturing is poised to return to its pre-pandemic growth. This is especially true in North County where the jobs are concentrated in high-value goods and firms expect to expand into additional space. Fortunately, North County has room for Manufacturers to grow. Manufacturing has a long, innovative history in North County San Diego and is a leader in the production of high-value goods from biomedical devices to telecommunications equipment. North County Manufacturing is important to the San Diego region, supporting nearly 72,000 jobs across industry and throughout the county.

Read the full study here. Innovate78 supports the business ecosystem of the 78 Corridor by further elevating North County San Diego’s reputation and assisting businesses as they evolve. The partnership includes the cities of Carlsbad, Escondido, Oceanside, San Marcos and Vista.