Biggest companies in the Inland Empire
The Inland Empire, a vibrant and expansive region in Southern California, has experienced significant economic growth over the past few decades. This growth is largely driven by a diverse array of industries and types of companies, from technology and logistics to education and healthcare. Among the biggest companies contributing to this development are Amazon, YRC Freight, Ontario International Airport, and local hospitals. Each plays a pivotal role in shaping the economic landscape of the area. In this article, we discuss who to work for and these top companies in depth.
From A to… Y
Amazon: Fueling Growth
Amazon stands out as a major force in the region’s economy. With several fulfillment centers across the Inland Empire, the company not only brings thousands of jobs but also stimulates local economies. In 2012, Amazon opened its first fulfillment center in San Bernardino. Since then, Amazon has expanded its presence, launching nine additional fulfillment centers and other large-scale operations in San Bernardino and Riverside counties.
In Amazon’s most productive period of expansion (2012 to 2016), its combined economic impact in the Inland Empire was $4.7 billion, with $1.95 billion generated in 2016 alone. This impact included direct spending on workers, supplies, utilities, facility costs, and security. By 2018, Amazon’s workforce in the Inland Empire grew to 18,000 employees, while an additional 34,600 jobs were created in local areas.
YRC Freight: Driving the Logistics Industry
The logistics industry has had a significant economic impact on California’s Inland Empire, and is the largest employer in the area, underpinning much of the region’s economic activity.
YRC Freight, a leading transporter of industrial, commercial, and retail goods, specializes in less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping solutions. With critical operations in the Inland Empire, YRC Freight plays a vital role in transporting goods across the West Coast and beyond.
Between 2021 and 2022, the logistics sector created approximately 51,800 jobs in the Inland Empire. This surge in employment has been sustained by the e-commerce boom, particularly during the pandemic when a shift from services to goods further accelerated job creation. At its peak in December 2022, the logistics sector employed 284,000 workers, making it the second-largest employer in the region.
Ontario International Airport: Gateway to Economic Expansion
Ontario International Airport is another cornerstone of the Inland Empire’s economic infrastructure. As a major hub for both passenger travel and cargo, domestic and international, the airport is particularly vital to the logistics and distribution sectors. In 2023 alone, ONT served 6.4 million passengers and handled 752,199 tons of freight.
As of 2022, the airport generated approximately $3.8 billion and supported about 27,800 jobs. Playing a central role in a global logistics network, ONT operations are also responsible for creating $9.9 billion of GDP and generating around $2.3 billion in local, state, and federal taxes annually.
Education: A Foundation for Future Growth
School districts across the Inland Empire are among the largest employers in the region. They not only provide education to thousands of students but also offer employment to a significant number of teachers, administrators, and support staff. These educational institutions are vital for community development, preparing the future workforce to meet the evolving needs of the local economy.
Growing Inland Achievement (GIA) is a K-16 nonprofit organization that networks education, government, nonprofit, and business partners in the Inland Empire. GIA’s mission is to promote educational and economic equity, particularly for historically marginalized groups. Its 2035 goal is for San Bernardino and Riverside Counties to be recognized for their educated workforce and vibrant economy.
Hospitals: Community Wellbeing and Employment
Hospitals in the Inland Empire are essential not only for public health but also as major employment centers. These institutions provide jobs to a wide range of professionals, from healthcare practitioners and nurses to administrative and support staff. The growth in the healthcare sector is reflective of the region’s expanding population and the increasing demand for medical services.
Healthcare employment in the Inland Empire has been on an upward trend, reflecting broader trends of the healthcare industry in the region. In 2023, healthcare jobs in the Inland Empire rose to 159,600, up from 152,300 jobs in 2022, while demand for medical office space grew.
Making the most in Southern California
The Inland Empire’s economy is shaped by a diverse array of major players, from global corporations to local institutions. Cities like San Diego and Ontario stand out as hubs of opportunity and growth, contributing significantly to the regional economy.
GYL is one of the top CPA Firms in Southern California, with offices in San Diego and Ontario. As a client-focused firm backed by decades of accounting and business experience, we’ve helped some of the biggest companies in San Diego navigate complex financial landscapes. We provide a full range of accounting, audit, business advisory and tax services for businesses, not-for-profits and individuals. Discover what we can do for you.