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Orange RPU PY 2025-2028 Regional Plan <br />4 | Page <br /> <br />language other than English at home, reflecting the county’s vibrant cultural mosaic. This <br />diversity enriches the region’s cultural and economic landscape and underscores the <br />need for workforce programs, such as vocational English as a Second Language (ESL), <br />to empower all residents to participate in and contribute to the local economy fully. <br />The county’s economic vitality is further bolstered by its key industries, including <br />advanced manufacturing, healthcare, technology, and tourism. However, persistent skill <br />gaps and an aging workforce pose risks to the sustainability of these sectors. Addressing <br />these challenges requires collaboration among businesses, government agencies, and <br />educational institutions to develop inclusive workforce strategies, create pathways to <br />high-quality employment, and ensure that economic opportunities are equitably <br />distributed across all communities. <br />Amid these complexities, Orange County remains a region of resilience and promise. By <br />leveraging its diverse talent pool, fostering innovation, and addressing systemic barriers, <br />the county is well-positioned to adapt to evolving economic realities and continue driving <br />growth for future generations. <br />Orange County’s Gross Regional Product (GRP) <br /> <br />Orange County’s economic vitality is <br />reflected as a major driver of growth for <br />the Southern California region and the <br />state. Representing 8.1 percent of <br />California’s population, 9.2 percent of its <br />total taxable sales, and 8.8 percent of its <br />Gross Regional Product (GRP), the <br />county demonstrates high economic <br />activity3. In 2023, Orange County's GRP <br />grew from $313 billion to $325 billion, a <br />3.9 percent increase, surpassing the GDP <br />of 26 U.S. states4. Additionally, its GRP <br />per capita of $98,979 significantly <br />exceeds the state average of $90,982, <br />further highlighting its robust economic performance5. This strength is fueled by a <br />diversified industry base, including technology, manufacturing, real estate, healthcare, <br />and professional services, which contribute significantly to regional economic activity. <br /> <br />Industry Contributions to GRP <br /> <br />Orange County’s economy is highly diversified, with specific industries contributing <br />significantly to its Gross Regional Product (GRP) relative to its share of employment. <br />Healthcare and social assistance lead to employment, while sectors like manufacturing <br />and finance contribute disproportionately to GRP, reflecting the high-value nature of their <br />outputs. Professional, scientific, and technical services also showcase the county’s <br />expertise in knowledge-driven industries. <br /> <br />3 County of Orange. Orange County Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) 2024-2029. Santa Ana, CA: County of Orange, 2024. <br />https://workforce.ocgov.com/sites/cid/files/2024-10/OC%20CEDS%20%282024-2029%29%20Approved.pdf. <br />4 Lightcast. Gross Regional Product Report. January 2025.https://analyst.lightcast.io/ <br />5 County of Orange, Orange County Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) 2024-2029. <br />$265 $264 $287 $313 $325 <br />$0 <br />$50 <br />$100 <br />$150 <br />$200 <br />$250 <br />$300 <br />$350 <br />2019 2020 2021 2022 2023$ In BillionsGross Regional Product <br />Data source: Lightcast <br />EXHIBIT 1