Welcome to Sonoma County
General
Life opens up in Sonoma County, just 30 miles north of San Francisco. Acclaimed food and wine, relaxing spas and stunning beauty create a wine country experience like no other. Taste a diverse terroir at more than 425 wineries, hike among towering redwoods, marvel at the stunning Pacific Coast and get to know inviting small towns. Or, just sit back and take it all in.
Business and the Economy
Sonoma County contains 9 main cities and plenty of smaller towns. It also boasts a diverse range of thriving key industry sectors: Agriculture, Construction and Real Estate, Creative, Food and Craft Beverage, Health, Manufacturing, Technology, Tourism and Wine.
Agriculture:
Sonoma County’s mild climate, abundant natural resources and talented stewards of the land have helped to establish the area as a farming, ranching and dairy epicenter known for progressive practices and uniquely creative products. A commitment by many producers and many consumers alike to “Go Local” assures that fresh and healthy food from nearby farms is commonly available at local restaurants, supermarkets and certified farmers’ markets.
Construction & Real Estate:
After a significant downturn during the recession, the construction industry in Sonoma County continues to rebound with 54% job growth from 2012 to 2021. Economic Modeling, LLC (EMSI) predicts that jobs in Sonoma County’s construction industry will continue to grow by 11% between 2021 and 2031. Average earnings per job in Sonoma County’s construction industry are $81,138 (EMSI, 2021).
Creative:
Sonoma County is home to over 1,800 Arts and Design businesses. These creative industries account for ~5 percent of the total number of businesses located in Sonoma County. (Source: Americans for the Arts)
Sonoma County boasts an active and diverse music scene with musicians and bands from all genres writing, performing and recording great music.
Sonoma County can claim early roots for the Makers community with local resident Dale Dougherty being credited as the Maker movement’s founder. Sonoma State University boasts the first Certificate in Making at a state university and making curriculum is integrated at the K-12 level as well. The movement has produced two businesses where makers can access gear, meet up with other makers, and learn new skills: 180 Studios in Santa Rosa and Chimera Arts and Makers Space in Sebastopol.
Food/Craft Beverage:
Sonoma County is experiencing a surge in hand-crafted beverages as consumer preferences shift towards smaller-scale production of beers, ciders and spirits.
Sonoma County is home to award-winning craft breweries, such as Lagunitas Brewing Company, Russian River Brewing Company and Bear Republic Brewing Company, that have been experiencing rapid growth and attracting tourists from around the nation. Meanwhile, local cideries and distilleries continue to increase output and employment.
Sonoma County is home to 29 breweries, 8 cider producers and 15 distilleries. Raw materials represent the largest overall supply cost to Sonoma County craft producers. Many producers source local ingredients, such as apples and grains, in their products helping to support local agriculture. As breweries, cideries, and distilleries continue to grow in Sonoma County, so too has their demand for local supplies and ingredients.
Health:
No matter where one chooses to live in Sonoma County, a variety of top notch healthcare and social assistance providers are conveniently located to every community. You do not have to travel far to receive care from excellent doctors and nurses, from major surgeries to minor scrapes or bruises, emergency care, pediatrics and delivery to elective surgeries. You will also have many options to fit your social assistance needs. Additionally, as a health conscious county, you will find that fitness opportunities abound to exercise and soothe the mind, body and soul.
Manufacturing:
Sonoma County has always been home to small and mid-sized manufacturers thanks to our affordability and business-friendly cities. Companies can afford to build infrastructure here, and their workers can afford to live here. We’re proud to be the home of world-class manufacturers of products that range from plastic laboratory equipment and small precision tools to components for high-end bicycles and American flags.
Technology:
Lodged among the beautiful hills and trees of Sonoma County are some of the most advanced technology companies in the nation. Companies like Agilent Technologies, Medtronic, Calix Inc., Sonic.net, and Cyan are just a small sample of the hundreds of tech companies located in Sonoma County. Less traditional technology companies make their home in Sonoma County too rounding out our general claim to being a home to a thriving technology community.
Tourism:
Since the late 1990’s, Sonoma County has grown to be a premier destination for tourism, and its proximity to Bay Area venues and airports augment its number of local and international visitors.
Sonoma County offers an extensive natural topography for outdoor recreation which draws visitors from all over the Bay Area and beyond. The rugged mountains that extend 76 miles over the Pacific Coast, the Armstrong Redwoods, and the Russian River offer exquisite views and massive potential for outdoor activity. According to the Sonoma County Economic Development Board’s 2010 Tourism Survey, rising market opportunities in the region include health and wellness, eco-tourism and cycling.
The Charles Schulz Sonoma County Airport compliments the tourism industry by providing direct air access to the region. (The airport also allows one case of wine to be checked as baggage, free of charge.)
Wine:
At the intersection of agriculture, manufacturing and artistry, you will find the iconic Sonoma County wine industry. Whether you work in the industry, or enjoy the “fruits” of production, you will find your place here among the vines and gently rolling hills.
Living and Visiting
Discover over 500 wineries and experience the rustic charm of down-to-earth locals, farmers, winemakers, and acclaimed chefs at farm-to-table restaurants. At the end of each day, unwind in your new home or unwind in your backyard oasis. Each community offers something different and yet something for everyone. From cycling through the vineyards, a horseback ride or multiple course wine & food pairings.
For visitors, Sonoma County is a dream destination with amazing wine, breathtaking ocean views, spectacular summits, impossibly tall trees and unforgettable epicurean experiences. Each one of these is a reason to make Sonoma County your next destination. Life opens up in Sonoma County.
