Advanced Manufacturing, Aerospace & Defense, Food Production, Logistics & Distribution
$38B Regional Economy #3 Youngest County in Arizona 10th Most Active US/Mexico Port
3rd Largest Metropolitan Economy in Arizona
Commuters
33 Years
Average Age (Census Reporter)
Average Median Home Price (National Association of Realtors, Q2 2025)
222,107 2026 POPULATION PROJECTION (ARIZONA OFFICE OF ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY) $11,353,488 2024 GDP
On behalf of the City of San Luis, I would like to personally welcome you to one of the most dynamic and fast-growing communities in Arizona. San Luis is a city where youth, opportunity, and growth come together to create real momentum for business success. Recently described as a boomtown, we are seeing that growth firsthand in the surge of new commercial development, residential construction, and industrial expansion throughout our community.
Our city is young, energetic, and workforce ready. With a trainable and bilingual labor base, available land for development, and a strong pipeline of infrastructure investment, San Luis offers a competitive environment for companies looking to grow strategically. Major improvements such as the Cesar Chavez Boulevard Roadway Improvements and the modernization and expansion of San Luis Port of Entry I are positioning our city as a critical gateway for commerce and trade in the region.
We understand that successful projects require strong partnerships. At the City of San Luis, our Economic Development team is committed to being that partner. We are here to assist you through every stage of your project, provide guidance, coordinate resources, and help ensure your investment is positioned for long-term success.
I invite you to learn more about our young and growing community and discover how your business can thrive in San Luis. We look forward to working with you and welcoming your success to our city.
Sincerely,
ARMANDO ESPARZA Director of Economic Development and Government Affairs
City of San Luis, Arizona
40,000 (2023 est.)
TOTAL POPULATION
7% (since 2020)
POPULATION GROWTH
30 (FT Locations 2024) MEDIAN AGE
*MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME 13,074
$59,400
* LABOR FORCE
PORTS OF ENTRY
• Calexico
• Long Beach
• San Luis
• San Ysidro
• 176 miles from sea port
YUMA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
• 718 Tons of Cargo in 2025
• 13,300 ft. of Runway
• U.S. Customs On-site
• Daily Direct Flights to Phoenix, AZ and Dallas, TX
12.2 million CROSSINGS SAN LUIS I (2025 data. U.S. Department of Transportation)
AIRPORT PROXIMITY
Along with duty and tariff elimination or reduction, Arizona offers up to an 80% reduction in state real estate and personal property taxes by operating in a federally qualified Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ). The reduction is good for the entire time that a company operates in the FTZ.
$1.8 billion
TOTAL TRADE (Imports & Exports San Luis II in 2025)
27 BUSINESS DAYS COMMERCIAL SHELL BUILDING REVIEW
261k tons
CARGO HANDLED (San Luis II Port of Entry in 2025)
700+ BUSINESSES 20 miles
*Source: American Community Survey 2020-2024 Data - JobsEQ
Proximity to major consumer markets, supply chain connectivity on both sides of the border and an industrial production workforce of 15,000+ creates a vibrant manufacturing environment for companies of all sizes. Air, rail, port and interstate infrastructure connect our region to over 100 M people within a two-day truck haul.
Vocational manufacturing training is available in 13 licenses/ certifications and offered at two industrial training facilities within the area. A strong water position with capacity for growth, redundant electrical infrastructure, natural gas looped system and high-speed fiber throughout the county offers companies the opportunity to grow their businesses within our robust utility corridor.
#1 in Workforce, Arizona ranked 1st in the nation by CNBC
Yuma County is marked as low risk for natural disasters. The region has low average storm events, is not exposed to coastal flooding and the region’s wildfire risk score is low.
Yuma County, AZ Casa Grande, AZ
AZ
San Bernardino, CA MSA
Yuma County, AZ Casa Grande, AZ
Recent Announcement
Myers Power is an industry leader in manufacturing power distribution centers, electrical pedestals, and low/medium voltage products located to the City of San Luis. The company intends to manufacture low-voltage products within its 83,000 SF facility and create over 150 jobs. The company has preliminary plans for Phase 2 that would create additional full-time jobs and capital investment in the near future.
With 350+ days of no inclement weather, the regional aerospace & defense sector benefits from an ideal testing climate that has made Yuma County a destination for companies such as BOEING, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and Rolls Royce Engines. The area also boasts a 1,300 square mile proving ground for weapons, aerial systems and ground vehicles. Yuma International Airport’s Defense Contractor Complex is a 100+ acre aviation industrial park with aprons and taxiways that connect to 13,300’, 10,000’+, and 8,000+ runways for aerial systems of all sizes. A veteran labor force of 6,400+ former military members with avionic technician and mechanical backgrounds creates a built-in workforce for MRO, R&D and manufacturing activities.
The fully furnished Joe Foss Hangar at Yuma International Airport is within FTZ #219 and includes offices, shops, and upper mezzanine space. The 110’ x 110’ hangars support aircraft up to 90,000 lbs and feature 4 workstations in each hangar set up with pneumatic air, electrical, data, and phone. Please visit www.defensetesting.com for additional information about the Joe Foss Hangar and opportunities within the Defense Contractor Complex.
MIL-SPEC SECURITY
13,300 FT RUNWAY LENGTHS
APRONS AND TAXIWAYS RATED FOR AIRCRAFT OF ANY SIZE
500+
Exiting Marines
6,287
Local Veterans Ages 18 - 64
$2,797,281,381
3,628 Aerospace and Defense Jobs
US Army Yuma Proving Ground
The US Army Yuma Proving Ground has the capacity for 15,000,000 miles of testing per year. This facility performs hot weather and other types of vehicle-based track testing for all GM product programs. #1
US Army Yuma Proving Ground is the largest and most active testing site in the United States for Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS). There were 10,766 test and training UAS sorties in the last year.
El Prado Estates
8
AREA: 5,519 mi²
POPULATION: 222,107 (projected)
WEATHER:
A Climate Built for Growth – With an annual average temperature of about 75°F, Yuma’s weather is perfect for business, tourism, and outdoor recreation. The region receives less than 4 inches of rain per year, ensuring consistently clear skies and ideal conditions for industries that thrive in a warm, dry climate.
Displayed companies and establishments are those that have been recently announced or are already existing in Yuma prior to publication.
Map is for illustrative purposes only.
Due to our fertile soil, senior water rights to the Colorado River and expansive land mass, the Greater Yuma region is able to grow 170+ different crops to feed America. Within a 100-mile radius, food processors can access poultry farms with 2,000,000+ chickens and feed lots with 650,000 head of cattle for protein inputs. The region also has commercial dairy farms producing 800,000+ gallons of fluid milk per month along with 40,000 acres of wheat grown annually. Our food production workforce of 15,000 individuals generates 90% of the nation’s winter leafy vegetables and other crops for worldwide consumption.
650k
Head of Cattle in the Region
800k+
Gallons of Fluid Milk Produced per Month in the Region
40k
Acres of wheat grown annually
YUMA COUNTY IS THE LARGEST PRODUCER OF LETTUCES AND OTHER VEGETABLES DURING THE WINTER MONTHS IN THE UNITED STATES, WITH AN IMPACT OF $4.4 BILLION.
Casa Grande, AZ
Yuma County, AZ
Tucson-Nogales, AZ Maricopa County, AZ
CA MSA
Yuma County, AZ
Casa Grande, AZ
Tucson-Nogales, AZ RiversideSan Bernardino, CA MSA
County, AZ
Reno, NV MSA
Reno, NV MSA Recent Announcement
The region produces 170+ various crops year-round.
The UA Yuma Agriculture Center (YAC) is the first Ag Tech Test and Demonstration site specifically for arid lands specialty crops. YAC offers both the specialty crop farm and the technology infrastructure to support AgTechnology Innovators from concept, industry demonstrations, to farm integration.
The Greater Yuma region is located on the border of 4 states and 2 countries. With a regional consumer base of 1.8M people and access to 52M people within a one-day truck haul, companies take advantage of our strategic location to serve their customers. Foreign Trade Zone #219 offers additional warehousing and supply chain benefits along with proximity to 4 ports of entry and less than 6 hours away from the Port of L.A./Long Beach.
San Luis I crossings experienced substantial growth over the past five years, increasing from 9,171,971 total crossings in 2021 to a record-breaking 12,205,167 crossings in 2025, a 33% increase during this period.
In 2025, the commercial San Luis Port of Entry facilitated $987 million in imports and $835 million in exports, for a total trade value of $1.8217 billion
Since 2021, total trade has increased 8% , with imports up 11% and exports rising 4% over that period. Compared to 2024, total trade grew 6% , driven by a 20% increase in exports, despite a 4% decrease in imports year-over-year.
The port features eight lanes, state-of-the-art inspection equipment, and an average wait time of less than 10 minutes, ensuring efficient and seamless trade and travel.
4 PORTS OF ENTRY
Calexico Port
Port of Long Beach San Luis 1 & II
San Ysidro Port of Entry
176 MILES FROM SEA PORT
YUMA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
718 Tons of Cargo in 2025
13,300 ft of Runway
U.S. Customs On-Site
D irect Daily Flights to Phoenix, AZ and Dallas, TX
The Arizona Department of Transportation Board has approved the long-awaited expansion of Cesar Chavez Boulevard in San Luis, with construction scheduled to begin in early 2026. The $65 million project will reconstruct the corridor into a four-lane divided roadway, including upgraded intersections, new signals and lighting, drainage improvements, and a new roundabout. The Cesar Chavez Boulevard Roadway Improvements are designed to enhance safety, reduce congestion, and support continued economic growth in the city. Construction is expected to begin in early 2026 and be completed by 2028.
The 5,600-square-foot multi-purpose facility is an extension of the Wellton Manufacturing Training Center. The branch campus is equipped to offer training in electrical technology, advanced manufacturing, broadband fiber optics, and solar installation.
13
3
4,951
170,000+
Get your blood pumping by making a trek to the top of Telegraph Pass. Iconic photos abound at Imperial Sand Dunes National Recreation Area and at Valley of the Names, while longer hikes with more time to contemplate or camp overnight include trails at Palm Canyon, Castle Dome and Picacho.
Experience the rich history of the Greater Yuma region, from indigenous cultures and Spanish missionaries to pioneer tales and the iconic Colorado River. Explore engaging museums, vibrant art at the Yuma Art Center, the funfilled Children’s Museum, and unexpected mustsee monuments that make the region truly unforgettable.
The Desert Southwest restaurants are rich in culture. From the rich full flavors of Mexico to the sultry spices of Asia and everything in between. So whether you're in the mood for tacos, Texas-style barbecue or Curry, you'll find it.
$268K AVERAGE HOME PRICE
Greater Yuma offers a variety of natural experiences for visitors and residents. Enjoy the water at Martinez Lake, Xanyō Xamshré (formerly called Squaw Lake), Senator Wash, and on the Colorado River where year-round recreation goes from mild to wild.
$1,533 AVERAGE RENT
Three national wildlife refuges in the Yuma area — Cibola, Imperial and Kofa — make up one of the country’s largest contiguous protected areas for wildlife. With more than 1,000 square miles between them, their ecosystems include desert, desert upland, riparian, grasslands, and forest.
450+ RESTAURANTS
100+ EVENTS ANNUALLY
130+ PARKS & GREEN SPACES
13 GOLF COURSES
9 ART GALLERIES
11 MUSEUMS
12 LAKES/PONDS
3 THEATERS
13 FAMILY FUN VENUES
20 MILES OF RIVERFRONT PATHS
26,000+ ACRES OF HIKING TRAILS
350+ SUNNY DAYS ANNUALLY
Sources: www.VisitYuma.com www.Zillow.com
The City of San Luis is committed to efficient and predictable review timelines for industrial and targeted development projects. Through coordinated interdepartmental review, projects can move forward concurrently through Planning, Engineering, Building Safety, and Utilities. Standard incentive and development agreement reviews typically range from 60 to 120 days, depending on complexity, with accelerated timelines available for priority projects that meet capital investment and job creation thresholds.
The Economic Development Department serves as the City’s business ombudsman or coordinating partner, providing a single point of contact for companies looking to open, expand, or relocate. The Department assists with navigating permitting, zoning, infrastructure coordination, and incentive applications, while tracking project progress and resolving issues that may arise. Our goal is to ensure that businesses receive clear guidance, timely communication, and coordinated support throughout the entire development process.
The City of San Luis Industrial Economic Development Incentive Policy establishes a structured framework for attracting and supporting targeted industries, including manufacturing, logistics, agribusiness, and maquila operations. Incentives are performance-based and tied to capital investment, job creation, wage standards, and employerprovided benefits. Each project undergoes a return-on-investment analysis to ensure a positive fiscal impact to the City, with agreements formalized through City Council approval.
Cities may amortize the cost of water and sewer connection fees up to seven years from the agreement date in order to assist companies with alleviation of upfront construction costs.
Programs that cover the entire costs of employee training, including teaching, materials, equipment and other expenses. Companies can additionally qualify for reimbursement of 50% employee salaries paid during training for up to 6 months.
Offers a refundable income credit equal to the lesser of 10% of the qualifying capital investment or $20,000 per net new job at the facility.
Manufacturers and processors that utilize more than 50% of electricity or gas to produce their commodity can qualify for a sales tax waiver on their utility bills.
Reimbursable grants to employers that implement new jobs or for training plans that increase employee skill level. Awards range from $2,000 to $8,000 per position.
Manufacturing equipment purchased within the state of Arizona qualifies for a sales tax waiver.
Provides per employee tax credits of $3,000 per new year for up to three years. Credits may be carried forward for five years. Eligibility qualifications are different from rural to metro areas and focus on capital investment and net new job creation (5 new jobs rural/25 new jobs metro).
Five-year accelerated depreciation schedules have been increased to help companies recover their investments even faster.
Companies engaged in solar, wind, geothermal and other renewable energy industries may obtain up to a 10% refundable income tax and up to a 75% reduction on real estate and personal property taxes.
The Research and Development Tax Credit (R&D) is a tax credit available to businesses of all sizes that engage in research and development activities conducted at a state university and funded by the company. Companies can claim a refund up to $100,000 in a single tax year.
The Mexico plan is underwritten by U.S. based firms and affords individuals the option to seek medical care in either San Luis Rio Colorado, MX or Algodones, Baja, MX (both sister cities to Yuma). Premium cost savings can include up to 1/3 of the cost of a traditional U.S. plan.
· As of January 2025 · For more information about each program, visit Arizona Commerce Authority
San Luis is a city defined by growth, resilience, and opportunity. Over the past decade, we have transformed from a small border community into one of Arizona’s fastest-growing cities. Even during periods of economic uncertainty, our community has continued to move forward because we believe in investing in infrastructure, supporting families, and creating a strong foundation for business success.
Our strategic location at the U.S.–Mexico border, combined with the expansion and modernization of the San Luis Port of Entry I, positions our city as a critical gateway for trade and commerce. Major infrastructure projects, including the Cesar Chavez Boulevard Roadway Improvements, reflect our long-term commitment to supporting economic development and ensuring that San Luis remains competitive and ready for growth.
We are proud of our young, hardworking, and bilingual workforce, and we are committed to creating opportunities that allow our residents and businesses to thrive. In San Luis, we believe that when we work together—city leadership, business partners, and our community—we can build a stronger future for generations to come.
We invite you to be part of that future and to discover the opportunity that awaits in San Luis.
Sincerely,
NIEVES RIEDEL
Mayor of the City of San Luis (928) 341-8520
ARMANDO ESPARZA Director of Economic Development and Government Affairs (928) 509-0398 yduarte@sanluisaz.gov
YIGAL DUARTE Economic Development Assistant (928) 341-8584 yduarte@sanluisaz.gov GREG LAVANN FTZ 219 Administrator (928) 782-7774 GlaVann@greateryuma.org
