From unforgettable finishes to packed neighborhood watch parties, the Olympic and Paralympic Games have a rare way of turning an entire city into part of the event. As Los Angeles gets ready to welcome the world in 2028, a new report suggests the impact could reach well beyond the stadiums.
The LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games could generate up to $40.6 billion in gross economic output across Greater Los Angeles and support up to 224,000 jobs, according to a new study commissioned by LA28. The report looks at the potential regional effects of planning, preparing for and hosting the Games across Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino and Ventura counties.
Local businesses and jobs
For many Angelenos, the most visible benefits may come through local jobs and businesses. LA28 aims to direct 75% of its addressable procurement spending to Greater Los Angeles businesses, with 25% intended for local and small companies. LA28’s newly introduced L.ocal A.uthentic Program is expected to create Games-time opportunities for hundreds of local and small food businesses.
What could last beyond 2028
The report identifies roughly $8.35 billion in transportation, airport, mobility, accessibility and venue investments that have been accelerated or undertaken in connection with the Games. Many of those projects respond to existing regional needs, with the event helping move them forward before 2028.
The Games’ legacy plans extend to youth sports, too. PlayLA, supported by up to $160 million from LA28 and the International Olympic Committee, has recorded more than 1 million enrollments in programs spanning more than 40 Olympic and adaptive sports.
With less than two years until the opening ceremony, the report presents the 2028 Games as more than a moment for elite competition: a chance to put Los Angeles’ local businesses, workers and neighborhoods on a global stage.
