10 Major California Industries to Consider if You’re Working in or Moving to the Golden State

California has one of the most diverse economies in the world, driven by a variety of influential sectors. With its innovative spirit and economic strength, California is known for being a global powerhouse. From technology to healthcare, the major industries in the state create millions of jobs and generate substantial revenue. This Redfin article highlights ten of California’s largest industries for anyone considering a move to the Golden State. Whether you’re looking at homes for sale in Los Angeles or browsing apartments in Sacramento, we’ll show you which industries and companies power the state’s economy.

California at a glance: Home prices, income, and employment

Top employers in California

1. University of California: 220,000 employees
2. Amazon.com: 170,000 employees
3. Home Depot: 53,800 employees
4. Kroger: 47,200 employees
5. Naval Base San Diego: 47,200 employees

10 major industries in California

1. Health and medical insurance

Major Companies: Kaiser Permanente (Oakland), Blue Shield of California (Oakland), Anthem Inc. (Woodland Hills)

Health and medical insurance is one of California’s largest industries, generating over $200 billion in revenue in 2024 while meeting the needs of its diverse and growing population. Major employers like Kaiser Permanente and Blue Shield of California offer positions in claims processing, customer service, and healthcare management. Jobs in this industry range from entry-level roles to high-level management, providing plenty of growth opportunities. Living in California offers stability and growth for new residents interested in this vital industry.

Thinking about moving to California for an insurance job? Consider homes for sale in Oakland or Woodland Hills.

2. Automobile wholesaling

Major Companies: Toyota Motor North America, Honda, Tesla (all based outside of California but operating in the state)

Automobile wholesaling is a critical component of California’s economy, with global brands like Toyota, Honda, and Tesla operating throughout the state. This industry offers job opportunities in sales, distribution, and logistics. California’s role as a transportation hub makes it ideal for car wholesalers and related businesses. Those moving to Cali can find abundant job prospects in automotive distribution. The state’s focus on eco-friendly transport also brings a sustainable edge to this industry.

Thinking about moving to California for an automobile wholesaling job? Consider homes for sale in Torrance or Long Beach.

3. Drugs, cosmetics, and toiletries

Major Companies: Amgen (Thousand Oaks), Allergan (Irvine), Johnson & Johnson (Los Angeles)

California’s beauty and healthcare markets are booming, with industry giants like Amgen, Allergan, and Johnson & Johnson. This industry includes roles in research and development, product marketing, and quality control. It’s a sector where science meets consumer demand, offering career paths for scientists, marketers, and product designers. The popularity of health and wellness trends ensures continued growth. Moving to California can lead to unique opportunities in an ever-evolving industry.

Thinking about moving to California for a job in drug, cosmetic, and toiletry wholesaling? Consider homes for sale in San Francisco or Fremont.

4. Healthcare

Major Companies: Cedars-Sinai Medical Center (Los Angeles), UCLA Health (Los Angeles), UCSF Medical Center (San Francisco)

California is home to some of the nation’s top hospitals, such as Cedars-Sinai, UCLA Health, and UCSF Medical Center. Hospitals employ healthcare professionals, administrative staff, and medical technicians, offering career paths across all levels. California’s healthcare sector is known for its advanced research facilities and patient care. With a strong demand for medical staff, moving to the Golden State provides career stability and a chance to work in a highly respected industry. Hospitals in California also offer cutting-edge facilities and ongoing education opportunities for medical professionals.

Thinking about moving to California for a hospital job? Consider homes for sale in Los Angeles or Pasadena.

5. Electronic part and equipment wholesaling

Major Companies: Intel (Santa Clara), Qualcomm (San Diego), Broadcom (San Jose)

The electronic parts and equipment industry in California is powered by tech giants like Intel, Qualcomm, and Broadcom. This industry creates jobs in manufacturing, engineering, and product design, essential for maintaining the technology backbone of the state. The high demand for electronics worldwide keeps this industry robust and resilient. A wealth of opportunities in tech hardware development await anyone considering living and working in California. The state’s tech scene is globally renowned, making it a top choice for tech professionals.

Thinking about moving to California for a job in equipment wholesaling? Consider homes for sale in San Jose or Foothill Ranch.

6. Software publishing

Major Companies: Adobe (San Jose), Salesforce (San Francisco), Oracle (offices throughout California)

Software publishing is synonymous with Silicon Valley, with companies like Adobe, Salesforce, and Oracle setting the industry standard. Roles in this sector include software engineering, product management, and tech support. California’s software publishing industry offers competitive salaries, career advancement, and opportunities for innovation. Whether you’re browsing homes for sale in San Francisco or apartments in Palo Alto, this industry offers a degree of job security and a vibrant work environment for tech-savvy job hunters. California’s influence on global software trends makes it a sought-after destination for IT professionals.

Thinking about moving to California for a software publishing job? Consider homes for sale in San Jose or Mountain View.

7. Automotive retail

Major Companies: CarMax (locations throughout California), AutoNation (Los Angeles), Galpin Ford (Los Angeles)

New car dealerships play a crucial role in California’s economy, with CarMax, AutoNation, and Galpin Ford leading the market. Job seekers in this industry can find roles in sales, service management, and customer support. Dealerships in California benefit from a high population and significant consumer spending on automobiles. For those moving to the Golden State, the automotive retail industry offers varied job prospects in a fast-paced setting. California’s focus on hybrid and electric vehicles also adds a forward-thinking element to car sales.

Thinking about moving to California for a job in the auto industry? Consider homes for sale in El Monte or Glendale.

8. Public education

Major Institutions: Los Angeles Unified School District (Los Angeles), San Diego Unified School District (San Diego), San Francisco Unified School District (San Francisco)

Public education is one of California’s largest sectors, with major employers like LAUSD, SDUSD, and SFUSD. This industry offers positions for teachers, administrative staff, and school counselors, making it essential for the state’s workforce. California’s diverse population creates unique teaching environments and professional growth opportunities in education. Whether you’re interested in rural or urban districts, moving to the Golden State can provide fulfilling roles in education. California’s commitment to educational improvement makes it a prime destination for educators.

Thinking about moving to California for a job in education? Consider homes for sale in Los Angeles or San Diego.

9. IT consulting

Major Companies: Accenture, Deloitte, Capgemini (all based abroad with offices throughout California)

California’s IT consulting industry thrives with companies like Accenture, Deloitte, and Capgemini providing technology solutions. This sector includes roles in project management, cybersecurity, and IT strategy, meeting the tech needs of various industries. IT consulting companies support California’s thriving business environment, offering ample career growth and flexibility. Relocating to the state offers tech professionals diverse opportunities to work with a range of clients. With the high demand for digital transformation, California is a hub for IT consultants.

Thinking about moving to California for an IT consulting job? Consider homes for sale in San Francisco or Santa Cruz.

10. Commercial banking

Major Companies: Wells Fargo (San Francisco), Bank of America (locations throughout California), SoFi (San Francisco)

Commercial banking is essential to California’s financial infrastructure, with giants like Wells Fargo, Bank of America, and Union Bank serving several locations here. Jobs in this industry range from financial advising to customer service and corporate banking. The state’s diverse economy keeps the demand for banking services high, offering stability in this sector. Moving to the Golden State is ideal for finance professionals seeking varied opportunities in personal, commercial, and investment banking. California’s banking industry supports individuals and businesses, providing essential financial services across the state.

Thinking about moving to California for a commercial banking job? Consider homes for sale in San Francisco or Santa Rosa.

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