San Bernardino County’s economic landscape presents a dynamic mix of growth, challenges, and opportunities for local businesses and entrepreneurs. Understanding these trends is crucial for navigating the region’s evolving market.
Economic Growth and Industry Performance
Recent data indicates that San Bernardino County has experienced varied economic performance across different sectors. Notably, the healthcare and educational services industries have seen significant employment growth, each increasing by 6% between 2022 and 2023. Over the past decade, the logistics sector led with an 82% employment increase, followed by healthcare at 38% and educational services at 27%. Conversely, sectors like logistics, professional services, and manufacturing services faced employment declines of 4%, 11%, and 3%, respectively, during the same period.
Business Climate and Regional Rankings
The Riverside-San Bernardino metro area was ranked 53rd out of 200 in the Milken Institute’s 2025 “Best Performing Cities” index, reflecting a decline from its 22nd position in 2022. This ranking considers factors such as job creation, wage growth, and output growth.
Entrepreneurial Support and Development
San Bernardino County has been proactive in supporting minority entrepreneurs. The Asociación de Emprendedor@s program, for instance, provided culturally tailored training and mentorship in Spanish, assisting 165 Hispanic entrepreneurs in 2023 and 2024. Nearly half of the 2023 graduates launched their own businesses, contributing to the region’s economic growth.
Additionally, the Inland Empire Center for Entrepreneurship (IECE) at California State University, San Bernardino, reported an economic impact exceeding $846 million over the past two decades. In 2024 alone, the IECE contributed over $146 million through loans, contracts, and exports, creating or retaining 6,948 jobs.
Opportunities for Local Businesses
The City of San Bernardino’s Economic Development Department offers various resources to support local businesses. These include site selection tools, business grants, and assistance with property tours. The department also organizes workshops and events aimed at fostering business growth and innovation.
For entrepreneurs seeking to start or expand their businesses, the city provides guidance on zoning, building codes, and necessary permits. Collaborating with the Planning and Building Departments ensures compliance and facilitates a smoother setup process.
Conclusion
San Bernardino’s economic environment is characterized by both growth and challenges. By leveraging available resources and staying informed about industry trends, local businesses and entrepreneurs can navigate this landscape effectively, contributing to the region’s ongoing economic development.