Sports in the Los Angeles Basin: 2025 Economic Impact Study
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- Create Date October 14, 2025
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We are pleased to share that the Institute for Applied Economics has released the Sports in the Los Angeles Basin: 2025 Economic Impact Study, prepared for the Los Angeles Sports Council (LASC). This report highlights the powerful role that sports play as both an economic engine and a cultural anchor for our region, reinforcing the Los Angeles Basin’s position as one of the world’s premier sports markets.
Why this work matters
The sports industry in Los Angeles and Orange counties doesn’t just provide entertainment, it drives jobs, business opportunities, and regional identity. With major global events on the horizon, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup, 2027 Super Bowl, and 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, our research provides a timely benchmark for understanding how existing infrastructure, professional teams, collegiate athletics, and special events collectively sustain economic growth and community engagement.
Key findings
In 2024, the sports industry generated $12.1 billion in total output, supported 92,970 jobs, and contributed $726 million in state and local taxes across the two-county region.
Professional sports accounted for over 84% of this activity, generating $10.2 billion in output, $8.2 billion in labor income, and 78,610 jobs.
Collegiate sports added $1.87 billion in output and 14,360 jobs, driven by expanded programs and strong attendance across 56 institutions and more than 17,500 student athletes.
Major events like the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, US Open of Surfing, Rugby Sevens World Championship, and The Genesis Invitational contributed additional economic boosts, reinforcing our region’s readiness for future global competitions.
The opening of Intuit Dome and renovations at Crypto.com Arena further strengthened Los Angeles’ sports infrastructure, positioning the region to host large-scale events without major new construction.
Sports-related education programs across our universities and community colleges are fueling a growing pipeline of talent for the industry, supporting approximately 10,000 annual job openings in sports business and management fields.
Why it’s important to LAEDC
This study is an example of how LAEDC’s Institute for Applied Economics provides data-driven insights that directly inform regional economic strategy. By quantifying the scope of sports as an industry cluster, we help partners like LASC, the County, and cities across the Basin plan for workforce development, infrastructure investment, and equitable access to opportunity in one of our fastest-growing sectors.
Check out this accompanying Infographic .
Thank you to everyone who supported this project and to our partners at the Los Angeles Sports Council for their continued collaboration. This work underscores LAEDC’s commitment to advancing a more inclusive, resilient, and opportunity-rich regional economy.