Riverside, California, boasts a diverse economy rooted in light industry, education, healthcare, and retail. The city produces aircraft components, automotive parts, gas cylinders, electronics, food products, and medical devices, supported by industrial hubs like Hunter Industrial Park, Sycamore Canyon Industrial Park, and the Airport Industrial Areas. While manufacturing remains strong, the historic citrus industry is in decline due to urbanization and water scarcity.

As the county seat of Riverside County and the most populous city in the Inland Empire, Riverside is also home to numerous legal, accounting, engineering, and banking firms. Notable businesses headquartered in the city include Bourns, an American electronics company.

Top Employers in Riverside

According to the 2023 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, Riverside’s largest employers span government, education, healthcare, and defense:

1. County of Riverside – 24,399 employees
2. March Air Force Reserve – 9,750 employees
3. University of California, Riverside (UCR) – 8,831 employees
4. Kaiser Permanente – 7,610 employees
5. Riverside Unified School District – 4,505 employees
6. Riverside Community Hospital – 2,993 employees
7. City of Riverside – 2,457 employees
8. Riverside Community College District – 1,900 employees
9. Alvord Unified School District – 1,824 employees
10. California Baptist University – 1,355 employees

Retail and Commerce

Riverside’s retail sector continues to grow, offering a mix of shopping malls and unique retail districts. Popular shopping centers include:

• Galleria at Tyler – A major shopping mall with national retailers.
• Riverside Plaza – An open-air shopping and entertainment center.
• Main Street Pedestrian Mall – A downtown hub featuring specialty shops and dining.

Additionally, Riverside’s historic downtown and cultural attractions make it a sought-after location for film and television productions, further diversifying the city's economic landscape.