The 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games could generate between about $20.5 billion and $40.6 billion in economic output and support roughly 126,000 to 224,000 jobs across Greater Los Angeles, according to a new analysis from the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation.
Conducted by LAEDC's Institute for Applied Economics and commissioned by LA28, the study assesses the economic and fiscal impacts of planning, preparing for and hosting the Games across the multiyear period leading up to and including 2028.
"The scale and breadth of the economic activity associated with the 2028 Games is significant, even when viewed through a conservative lens," said Stephen Cheung, president and CEO of LAEDC. "Our analysis shows the impact reaching across the regional economy, from jobs and labor income to local businesses, visitor spending, and long-term investment."
"The impact of the LA28 Games will be felt far beyond the moment the last medal is awarded," said Reynold Hoover, CEO of LA28. "This study shows the tremendous opportunity we have to support jobs, open doors for local businesses, and drive investments that strengthen communities across Los Angeles."
The study examined five sources of economic activity: LA28 operational spending, Games-related transportation and security spending, capital investment, non-resident visitor spending and spending by independently funded stakeholders.
Capital investment represents the largest single source of impact. About $8.35 billion in transportation, airport, mobility, accessibility and venue investments have been accelerated or undertaken in connection with the Games, aided by LA28's no-build approach for venues.
The analysis estimates the Games could generate about $5.1 billion to $5.9 billion in combined federal, state and local tax revenue. LA28 has set goals to direct 75% of its addressable procurement spending to businesses in Greater Los Angeles and 25% to local and small businesses.
The Games are expected to draw around 2 million visitors, generating an estimated $1.6 billion to $4.3 billion in direct visitor spending in Los Angeles County alone, benefiting hotels, restaurants and retailers.
The analysis relies on two methodologies — a National Income Accounting framework recommended by the International Academy of Sport Science and Technology, and the IMPLAN regional input-output framework — along with OECD guidance for measuring the impacts of major events.
The full report is available at https://laedc.org/download/projected-economic-impacts-of-the-los-angeles-2028-olympic-paralympic-games#1.
Edited by SMDP Staff