Olympics Expected To Drive $13B In Spending Across LA County

LOS ANGELES, CA — The 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games are projected to generate $19.2 billion in economic activity across Los Angeles County while supporting more than 88,000 jobs between 2024 and 2028, according to a new county analysis.

The report projects more than $13 billion in direct games-related spending, including $5.5 billion in public infrastructure investment and $7.1 billion that LA28 plans to spend organizing and operating the games.

County officials also estimate the games could generate an additional $1 billion in tourist spending beyond what the region would typically see during a summer.

Los Angeles County is seeking to steer more of that spending toward local workers and businesses. Among the county's goals are directing 75% of county games-related spending to businesses in Los Angeles County and filling 40% of jobs tied to county investments with local workers.

The county is also targeting 25% of spending for small businesses and 10% for hyperlocal and microbusinesses.

Some programs are already underway. The Department of Economic Opportunity's Path to 2028 initiative aims to prepare 1,000 small businesses to compete for contracts and train 1,000 local workers for industries expected to need additional employees during the Games.

So far, 245 businesses have participated in procurement and certification sessions in Pico Rivera, Palmdale and Torrance, according to the county.

The county also announced nearly $2 million for worker-training partnerships focused on industries expected to see increased demand during the Games.

Officials cautioned that the economic benefits will not necessarily reach every community automatically. The report identified communities including Carson, Exposition Park, Pomona and the City of Industry as areas that could see increased visitor traffic without capturing substantial spending unless additional efforts are made to connect visitors with local businesses.

The Olympic Games are scheduled for July 14-30, 2028, followed by the Paralympic Games from Aug. 15-27.

The full county report is available here.