2025 in Review: A Year of Growth in Carlsbad

As we approach the end of the year, we’re proud to reflect on all we accomplished in partnership with our thriving business community. Our innovative startups, small businesses and industry leaders in Carlsbad saw remarkable achievements throughout the year.

“For our business owners and community members, 2025 was another year of enjoying all Carlsbad has to offer,” said Matt Sanford, Economic Development Director for the City of Carlsbad. “From our businesses to our vibrant neighborhoods and beautiful coastal amenities, Carlsbad continues to be a place where people want to live, work and explore. As we look ahead, we’re excited to build on this momentum, foster new opportunities for growth and ensure Carlsbad remains a city for everyone.”

At Carlsbad Life in Action, we focus on three key pillars: working, living and exploring. Here’s a look at how our city excelled in each area during 2025.

Work: Economic Growth & Talent Development

Carlsbad’s business landscape continued to flourish in 2025. Major employers deepened their investment in our city, fueling job creation and innovation. For example, in November, Novartis, a global pharmaceutical leader, opened a cutting-edge, 10,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Carlsbad—their third U.S.-based radioligand therapy (RLT) site.

Throughout the year, the city engaged with business leaders and talent at events like Startup Week, which kicked off the 2025 event in Carlsbad. Sessions focused on building sustainable success and overcoming growth challenges, highlighting Carlsbad’s role as a hub for innovation.

We also created a Small Business Liaison program with dedicated Office Hours to reduce the barrier for our small business community to access available resources and guidance. Small businesses make up 94% of Carlsbad businesses and are important to our culture as well as our economy. They are also a major generator of jobs for Carlsbad workers. Ensuring they have the support they need is imperative for the city.

Live: Community & Quality of Life

In Carlsbad, living where others vacation is a reality. Residents enjoy the unique blend of career opportunities, top-rated schools and a vibrant lifestyle. This also includes a great place to call home. In Carlsbad, residents can find different options for their community ranging from our walkable downtown village to amenity-filled neighborhoods. Additionally, our cost of living continues to be lower than other major employment hubs in California like San Francisco and San Jose.

In 2025, Carlsbad balanced quality of life with smart growth. The city invested in infrastructure and community amenities to ensure residents enjoy both convenience and connection.

Explore: Culture & Play

Carlsbad is at the heart of endless activities, from the historic Carlsbad Village to miles of beaches and trails. Our city’s emerging foodie scene and vibrant arts community offer something for everyone, and we’re just a short drive from all that San Diego has to offer.

This year, Carlsbad came alive with events celebrating our creative spirit. We showcased art throughout the Carlsbad Village, ranging from the 27th annual Art in the Village to the Holiday Window Decorating Contest. Food lovers rejoiced as Lilo, a new fine dining destination, earned the San Diego region’s only new Michelin Star in 2025. Carlsbad residents can also enjoy all our city has to offer everyday—whether heading to the beach, a local brewery or a scenic bike trail

Small businesses remain a vital part of Carlsbad’s local economy, contributing to a vibrant mix of services, experiences and community gathering spots. Their continued growth supports both the city’s economic resilience and its exceptional quality of life, contributing to the charm Carlsbad is known for.

What’s Next for Carlsbad

As we look ahead to 2026, we’re excited for what’s on the horizon. With the support of our partners, business leaders, and exceptional talent pool, there’s no limit to what our community can achieve. Stay connected with Carlsbad Life in Action by visiting our website.