City of San Diego Economic Development Economy

The San Diego regional economy continues to undergo a dynamic transformation from one based on military and defense spending to an economy that is propelled by high-technology companies competing in the international marketplace. These mostly small and mid-size high-tech firms produce the products and services most in demand in the new global economy. Since a recession of the early 1990s, San Diego has seen dramatic increases in its gross regional product, exports, per capita income, and employment.

Employment

Employment opportunities abound in San Diego. Independent studies indicate San Diego is one of the top 10 cities in the country for job growth through 2025, and many of the high-tech jobs are being created by emerging high-tech companies in the region.

Industry

The top four industries in San Diego are manufacturing, defense, tourism, and agriculture. In addition, the City of San Diego focuses on six main industry clusters:

Biotechnology/Biosciences
Defense and Space Manufacturing
Electronics Manufacturing
Financial and Business Services
Software
Telecommunications

These "economic engines" indicate San Diego's future growth.

Other industries showing significant growth include environmental, transportation, recreational goods, and international trade. San Diego is home to one-third of the country's top 20 environmental design firms, has more than 1,000 companies concentrating on transportation technologies and services, and has more than 600 companies in the region with binational operations.