Torrance Named LA County's Most Business-Friendly Large City

TORRANCE, CA — Torrance has been named Los Angeles County's most business-friendly large city for 2026, beating six other finalists, including Santa Monica and Burbank, for an award recognizing its efforts to attract investment, support local businesses and encourage economic growth.

The city received the honor Nov. 4 at the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation's 31st annual EDDY Awards, held at Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, according to an official announcement.

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"This is an incredible honor for the City of Torrance and a reflection of the strong partnerships we have built with our business community," Mayor Sharon Kalani said.

Torrance was selected from seven finalists in the large-city category, which also included Burbank, Carson, El Monte, Palmdale, Santa Clarita and Santa Monica. Culver City received the corresponding small-city award.

The recognition highlights Torrance's efforts to strengthen its economy through business-friendly policies, municipal support and investment in industries ranging from aerospace and advanced manufacturing to retail.

According to the city, Torrance has more than 13,000 active business licenses and does not impose a local gross receipts tax. Its economic development efforts also include assistance for businesses navigating city requirements and opportunities for expansion.

Recent investments highlighted by city officials include aerospace and manufacturing companies Northwood Space, Hadrian and FlightWave Aerospace Systems, while Nordstrom Rack and J.Crew are among the retailers the city has identified as coming to Torrance.

The LAEDC awards recognize municipalities that foster economic development through responsive government, innovative programs and partnerships with the business community.

In its awards recap, LAEDC credited Torrance's coordinated municipal leadership and continued commitment to helping businesses of all sizes establish themselves, invest and grow.