California is the number one state in the country for manufacturing and technology and the 5th largest economy in the world, but the cost of doing business in the Golden State isn’t always affordable, especially for new businesses. In some counties, the excessive operating costs, including high-priced commercial space and costly labor, are just too excessive for many manufacturing companies. With cost-effective, state of the art facilities, an affordable skilled workforce, accessible location, and a variety of county provided resources and assistance, San Bernardino County is the perfect location for manufacturing companies to obtain all the benefits of the Southern California marketplace at attainable costs.
Affordable Industrial Space
San Bernardino is the answer to a growing challenge in California - finding industrial space with enough room to grow at an affordable cost. With roughly 20 million sq. ft. of industrial space constructed per year in the Inland Empire not only does San Bernardino County offer ample space for manufacturing businesses, but it also does so at a fraction of the cost in neighboring counties. Real estate costs in San Bernardino County are much cheaper than those in Los Angeles County, Orange County, and San Diego County. In fact, leasing costs in San Bernardino County are half the cost of those in San Diego County.
LEASE RATES
- San Bernardino County: $.56 PSF
- Los Angeles County: $.83 PSF
- Orange County: $.92 PSF
Skilled Workforce
Similarly, labor costs in the county are considerably more cost-effective than the rest of Southern California. Even better, the county’s workforce is highly skilled. With over 20 nationally recognized colleges, universities, and vocational programs located in or near the county, there is no shortage of well-educated and highly qualified talent. Local engineering schools include Cal Poly Pomona College of Engineering, Industrial & Technical Learning Center of the Inland Empire, Harvey Mudd College, and University of California Riverside Bourns College of Engineering.
Convenient Location
Beautiful Southern California weather aside, San Bernardino County is an ideal location for manufacturing businesses. Encompassing over 20,000 square miles, the county stretches from the greater Los Angeles area to the Nevada border and the Colorado River. The county economy provides access to 23 million people and access to the coastal markets of Los Angeles, Orange, and San Diego counties. The county also boasts an efficient and well-funded transportation system, including three major interstate highways and three major railways. The county is home to Ontario international airport, is in close proximity to other major airports, and is located just 40 miles from major seaports.
San Bernardino County Economic Development Agency
The county of San Bernardino is committed to helping manufacturing businesses prosper and grow. The Economic Development Agency partners with multiple agencies to provide unparalleled support, facilitate important connections and relationships, and offer a variety of valuable resources. The EDA offers businesses assistance with site selection, market analysis, project facilitation, permits, regulations and taxes, and much more. The agency also connects businesses to a variety of federal, state, and local incentives, including various tax credits, assistance programs, and loans and financing.
Over 2,100 manufacturers already call San Bernardino County home. The county offers so many competitive advantages and provides an exceptional support system; it’s no surprise that San Bernardino County is one of the most sought-after locations. Key manufacturing sectors in the county include advanced manufacturing, food manufacturing, plastic and rubber products manufacturing, and primary metal manufacturing.
For manufacturing startups, or for those looking to relocate, San Bernardino County is a location for growth and opportunity. It’s more affordable to operate in San Bernardino County than neighboring counties, the workforce is highly skilled and cheaper, and it’s a prime geographical location. Not only does the county provide an accessible Southern California lifestyle, but it also provides manufacturing businesses with an affordable place to expand and succeed.
Want to know more? Learn what the San Bernardino County Economic Development Agency can do for your business, contact us at [email protected] or 909-387-4700.
