Los Angeles Startup Ecosystem
Major tech hub with strong entertainment tech, e-commerce, and consumer focus. Known as "Silicon Beach" with growing startup scene.
Ecosystem Overview
💰 Funding
$10B+ in total funding, with strong access to VCs and entertainment industry investors.
👥 Talent
200K+ tech workers and access to UCLA, USC, and Caltech talent.
🏢 Infrastructure
25 accelerators, 80 co-working spaces, and growing support networks.
Key Strengths
Key Industries
Cost of Living
Top Accelerators
Techstars LA
Techstars accelerator program in Los Angeles
Mucker Capital
Early-stage VC and accelerator focused on LA startups
Amplify.LA
Early-stage accelerator in Los Angeles
Co-working Spaces
Top Funding Sources
Upfront Ventures
Early-stage VC firm with strong LA presence
Greycroft
Early-stage VC firm with LA and NYC presence
Mucker Capital
Early-stage VC and accelerator focused on LA
Notable Companies
Snap Inc.
Social media company (Snapchat), founded in Venice
SpaceX
Aerospace manufacturer, founded in Hawthorne
Riot Games
Video game developer (League of Legends), founded in Santa Monica
Tinder
Dating app, founded in West Hollywood
Ring
Smart doorbell company, founded in Santa Monica
Bird
Electric scooter sharing, founded in Santa Monica
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Los Angeles a good city for startups?
Los Angeles offers a unique combination of entertainment, tech, and consumer-focused startups. Known as "Silicon Beach," LA has $10B+ in funding, 30+ unicorns, strong access to media and entertainment talent, and a growing tech scene. The city is particularly strong in entertainment tech, e-commerce, and consumer startups.
What are the top accelerators in Los Angeles?
Top accelerators include Techstars LA, Amplify LA, and Mucker Capital. Techstars LA offers $120K for 6% equity. The ecosystem also benefits from proximity to Hollywood and media companies that provide unique opportunities for entertainment tech startups.
How much does it cost to start a startup in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles has a cost of living index of 173 (73% above national average), making it one of the most expensive cities. Average rent for a 1-bedroom is around $2,500/month. However, the access to entertainment talent, media connections, and consumer market often justifies the cost for relevant startups.
What industries are strongest in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles is particularly strong in entertainment tech, e-commerce, consumer tech, and media. The city has a unique advantage in combining tech with entertainment, fashion, and lifestyle brands. There's also growing presence in fintech, enterprise software, and AI/ML.
Is Los Angeles good for entertainment tech startups?
Yes, Los Angeles is the world's leading hub for entertainment tech startups. The proximity to Hollywood, major studios, talent agencies, and media companies provides unique opportunities for startups building in streaming, content creation, influencer marketing, and entertainment technology.
What VCs are active in Los Angeles?
Active VCs include Upfront Ventures, Crosscut Ventures, Mucker Capital, and Greycroft. Many Bay Area and New York VCs also actively invest in LA startups, recognizing the unique opportunities in entertainment tech and consumer brands.
Compare with Other Ecosystems
🌉 San Francisco
World's #1 ecosystem with more capital. Higher costs but more opportunities.
Compare →🗽 New York
Strong in media and consumer. Similar costs and diverse industries.
Compare →🏖️ Miami
Growing consumer and fintech hub. Lower costs and no state tax.
Compare →🌴 San Diego
Similar California location. Strong biotech and lower costs than LA.
Compare →