The 5 Largest Employers in Orange County, CA

A man with a suitcase walking, symbolic of the jobs created by Orange County's largest employers.

Our List of Orange County’s 5 Largest Employers

If you Google “Orange County”, the first results will probably describe the region’s list of attractions and outdoor activities. All this is true. However, it only paints half the picture. Today, Orange County has a thriving business environment with a lot to offer. Here, you will find some of the world’s largest companies. They come to Orange County to enjoy the thriving business environment and work with a pool of talent that helps them grow further.

We love OC businesses and therefore took it upon ourselves to create a list of the 5 largest employers in Orange County. So read on for the official My OC Bookkeeper list of the OC’s largest job creators.

The Walt Disney Company

Topping Orange County’s largest employers list, The Walt Disney Company with about 30,000 employees countywide. That is why, it plays a vital role in the Orange County economy. The Walt Disney Company operates in four business segments: Media Networks, Parks, Experiences and Products, Studio Entertainment, and Direct-To-Consumer (DTC) and International. That is why, it always offers a steady stream of diversified job opportunities.

At The Walt Disney Company, they understand how each member of their staff will have an impact on people’s lives worldwide. That is why, they don’t hire just anybody. (Interesting fact: they may have hired the mother of one of our staff members.) They also ensure that their staff comes from unusually diverse demographic backgrounds – the company is 52% female and 43% minorities.

From the start, The Walt Disney Company has branded itself as the place of making dreams come true. That is not just their mission with their customers. The Walt Disney Company also tries to help its employees reach their dreams. That is why, they invest in their employees’ education through their Disney Aspire program. For all these reasons and more, The Walt Disney Company is not just the largest employer in Orange County – it also has a great employee retention rate, with staff members usually staying with the company for 3.7 years.

(Sidebar, do yourself a favor and watch the video below. It’s about Disney’s longest standing employee who worked there for 65 years! We’re not sure what his thoughts on the 5 largest employers in Orange County are, but we suspect he likes at least one of the companies on our list.)

University of California

The second largest employers in Orange County are not from the private sector. With 23,884 employers, UCI tops the list as the largest public sector employers in Orange County. They are also contributing $7 billion annually to the local economy and $8 billion statewide.

Over the past few years, UCI has been growing rapidly in many areas. That is why, its size of employees has also increased drastically. Founded in 1965, UCI is considered the youngest member of the prestigious Association of American Universities. It also ranks among the nation’s top 10 public universities by U.S. News and World Report. With three Nobel laureates, UCI is known for its academic achievement, cutting edge research, innovation and its infamous anteater mascot. That is why, Forbes has named it one of the best employers in the USA.

County of Orange

Offering about 17,271 jobs, the County of Orange lands in the third place of our list of largest employers in Orange County. The County of Orange is a local governmental agency responsible for developing, managing and providing a wide range of public services. Their scope of services includes public safety, public health, environmental protection, regional planning, and social services. To deliver all these services in a responsive and timely manner, the County of Orange partners with regional businesses and other governmental entities.

At the County of Orange, the staff comes from unusually diverse demographic backgrounds. The organization is 53.5% female and 54.4% ethnic minorities. This diversification is also extended to the political orientation of the employees, with 49.7% Democrats and 46.6% Republicans. The County of Orange also offers good working conditions, health, dental, medical insurances, paid time off, 401k plan, etc. That is why, their employee retention rate is high with staff members usually staying for 6.6 years within the company. No wonder the County of Orange has ranked number 4 on the Best Government Companies to Work for in Santa Ana, CA list.

A sign with the words "for hire", symbolic of Orange County's largest employers.

St. Joseph Health

When you think about the largest employers in Orange County, usually big names, such as Disney or Boeing, come to mind. That is why, many people get surprised when they see St. Joseph Health in the list. With a workforce of 14,000 employees, St. Joseph Health lands on the well-deserved fourth place in our list.

This Catholic not-for-profit, health care system has long and storied roots in Orange County. Its first hospital in Orange County, St. Joseph in Orange, was founded in 1929. Today, St. Joseph Health includes 16 hospitals, physician organizations, home health agencies, hospice care, outpatient services and community outreach services. They cover California, Texas and New Mexico. In 2016 and 2017, St. Joseph Health was awarded Top Workplaces Regional Awards by the Orange County register.

Kaiser Permanente

As one of the nation’s largest not-for-profit health plans, it is no surprise that Kaiser Permanente lands in our largest Orange County employers’ list. With a workforce of 8,178 jobs, Kaiser Permanente serves 12.5 million members.

For over 76 years, Kaiser Permanente has been leading the way with innovative approaches to health care. Their goal has always been to deliver high-quality and affordable health care services. Kaiser Permanente Orange County hospitals are among the best in the nation for delivering high-quality care, according to the U.S. News and World Report’s 2021-2022 “Best Hospitals” rankings. They have also been recognized on Glassdoor’s 2019 Best Places to Work list.

This concludes our list of the 5 largest employers in Orange County. Let us know your opinion and how you see each of these companies. We would love to have a good discussion about that. You can also check our list of The 5 Best Businesses in Irvine. Or, if you’re looking for a great place to live in this lovely county, check out our post on the best places to live in the OC.


Do you want to grow your business and maybe one day land on the list of top five employers in Orange County? At My OC Bookkeeper, we can help you achieve that and much more. We understand all the challenges that come along with the huge business opportunities in Orange County. That is why, we provide the best bookkeeping and business advisory services available in Southern California. With us, you can rest assured you will get the business partner you need to make your business thrive. To learn more about our services and how we can help, reach out to us. Let’s chat and see how we can do great things together.

The 5 Coolest Tech Firms in Irvine, CA

A zoomed up picture of a microchip, symbolic of the many technology companies in Irvine

Our List of the 5 Coolest Tech Firms in Irvine

Orange County has always been synonymous with sunny, beach towns. However, today cities like Irvine have a lot more to offer. That is why, over the past years, more and more tech firms and start-ups have been gravitating to the area.

Today, Irvine is considered one of the leading cities in the tech scene. It is known for hosting the offices of huge tech firms as well as rising start-ups. All these cool tech companies come to Irvine to have access to the talents they need to grow. What better place to find these talents other than Irvine?

For years, UC Irvine and other institutions have been known to graduate a deeply educated workforce. That has been Irvine’s Master Plan since decades ago; to be a city of intellect, built around the university. Obviously, Irvine is going on the right track. Today, you will find the offices of some of best tech firms in the world here in Irvine. Here is our list of the 5 coolest tech firms in Irvine.

Google

Should we say more? Most probably, you have reached this article using Google search engine. As they say, Google knows everything. That is why, Google has dominated the search engine market, with about 92.5 percent. However, that did not stop Google from expanding their success to other services. Today, thousands of users around the globe enjoy Google mail services, productivity tools, enterprise products, mobile devices and much more.

This tech giant is not just famous for its revolutionary product launches and innovative approach. Google is also known for its extraordinary work environment and employee facilities. Google Irvine office is no different. Designed by San Francisco-based Rapt Studio, Google Irvine building catches Orange County’s beach culture. You will find beach cruisers in the lobby. There is even a lifeguard tower on the roof deck.

Workspace design might not be enough to get Google on top of our coolest tech firms in Irvine. However, Google commitment to expanding opportunities and building a diverse workforce is. That is why, Google has claimed the 6th spot in Glassdoor’s 13th annual “Employees’ Choice Awards, with a rating of 4.5, in the best places to work in the 2021 list.

Microsoft

Over the past decade, many people thought Microsoft has lost a bit of their shine. However, they have made a strong comeback. Today, Microsoft has become again one of the superstar firms not just in Irvine, but in the entire tech world.

By introducing Windows 95 back in the days, Microsoft has ushered the world into the golden age of PC usage. Computers were no longer just meant to be used at work. People bought PCs for their homes. That is when Microsoft became a dominant player in the tech scene.

The period from the mid-2000s up to 2014 was a dark phase for Microsoft. The company could not compete with Google in the search engine field. They also had a little success with smartphone operating systems or devices. Still, companies and regular users did not stop buying Windows computers. Fortunately, Microsoft decided to build on its strength to come back stronger than ever. They returned to their roots by introducing the game changing cloud computing technology, which is considered one of the most important technologies of the past decade. This and the cultural change landed Microsoft on our coolest tech firms in Irvine.

Syntiant

Unlike Google and Microsoft, Syntiant is headquartered in Irvine. Founded in 2017, this tech firm has quickly become a leader in the moving artificial intelligence and machine learning technology. Syntiant produces ultra-low-power semiconductors that facilitate speech interfaces on various battery-powered consumer devices.

In simpler words, Syntiant offers a breakthrough technology that enables small devices, such as earbuds, to offer voice interaction. This means, you can give your smart speakers, AR glasses and security devices command words to control them. No need for bulky batteries or control buttons, your tiny, battery-operated devices will execute your commands just by using your voice. How cool and brilliant is that?

Compared to traditional processing technologies, Syntiant devices typically deliver 100 times the performance. That is why Syntiant was named one of the top 100 AI companies. Syntiant’s exceptional work was also recognized by Octane, Southern California’s leading accelerator. In 2021, Syntiant received their High-Tech Award for “Best Technology Company Leadership Team”. The work of Syntiant is also backed by multiple of the world’s most well-known investors including Intel Capital, Applied Ventures, Robert Bosch Venture Capital, Microsoft’s M12, Amazon Alexa Fund and Atlantic Bridge Capital.

Cylance

Also based in Irvine, is Cylance Inc., a medium-sized software firm that develops antivirus programs. Unlike other cyber security firms, Cylance software works proactively. It prevents, rather than reactively detecting viruses and malware. To prevent cyber breaches and attacks, Cylance uses artificial intelligence, algorithmic science and machine learning technology. They are considered the first tech company to apply this advanced technology to cyber security. Clients of Cylance include companies in industries such as retail, finance, healthcare, government and education in Irvine and across the USA.

Cylance was founded only in 2012. Being a relatively young company did not stop Cylance from becoming a leader in the cyber security world. Their CylancePROTECT software is an award-winning next-generation antivirus product. It can stop what other antiviruses cannot even detect by using prediction and pre-response at the enterprise endpoint. That is how, CylancePROTECT can effectively prevent modern malware and advanced threat breaches, before they can cause any damages or harm. That is why Cylance’s Fortune 500 customer list includes hot shots such as 20 of the biggest energy, oil and gas companies, 34 of the best healthcare companies, 43 of the top banking and financial services companies and 46 of the top high-tech companies.

MobilityWare

Our list of coolest tech firms in Irvine could not end without mentioning this leading mobile gaming company. MobilityWare was founded in 1990 and headquartered in Irvine with the aim of bringing joy to others, one game at a time. They focus on creating fun and engaging experiences that everyone can enjoy.

MobilityWare awesome culture of innovation, collaboration, and fun makes this tech firm one of the coolest in Irvine. That is why, they have won “Orange County’s Best Places to Work”​ by both the OC Business Journal and OC Register for three years in a row.

Their popular mobile games have been rocking the app store since its inception. With classic games, such as Solitaire, MobilityWare have created some of the most iconic app store games ever. Their other famous titles include Blackjack, FreeCell, Jigsaw Puzzle and Spider Solitaire. That is why, they have over 300 million downloads across their award-winning app portfolio.

In our opinion these are the 5 coolest tech firms in Irvine. We would love to know how you see the tech scene here in Irvine. So, drop a message in the comments and tell us your opinion.


At My OC Bookkeeper, we understand the challenges that come along with the great business opportunities here in Irvine, and we work with all kinds of great Irvine businesses. That is why, we offer our help to all kinds of companies in Orange County. Whether you were just starting out or running a well-established company, we can help you grow your business with our bookkeeping and business advisory services. By choosing us, you can rest assured you will get a business partner that will help you achieve your dreams. We are not just an outside service provider. Our services will help your business thrive.

So, get in touch with us now and let’s do great things together.  

Where is the Best Place to Live in Orange County?

newport beach, orange county, best place to live in orange county

If you ask a handful of people for their ideal living conditions, you’re bound to get a handful of different answers. The truth is, there is no one perfect place to live that will live up to everybody’s expectations. Some people like a big and busy city, some people prefer quiet nature spots. Some people prefer to be near big and famous festivals, and some would rather keep the action at bay. Luckily, whatever your preferences might be, Orange County has a little bit of everything to offer.

Some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, countless outdoor activities, a great shopping scene, some world-class food culture, perfect weather, and big cities like LA and San Diego nearby. The most difficult part about deciding to live in Orange County is deciding where in Orange County you’ll feel most at home. Here are some suggestions of the best place to live in Orange County, for your consideration.

newport beach, best place to live in orange county
Watching the sunset in Newport Beach, California

Newport Beach

It’s no wonder that Newport Beach is often cited as the best Orange County has to offer. If your dream city is a beachside paradise, Newport has more than plenty to offer. Newport Harbor, the Balboa Peninsula, and the two local piers offer some beautiful views and great afternoons in the ocean breeze.

The job market in Newport Beach is a strong one for people living in the city and nearby, with great opportunities for individuals in healthcare, accommodation and food services, and finance. The city is also home to many top-rated schools, which makes it an attractive prospect for families who love the beach life. The cost of living in Newport isn’t for everyone, however, and it’s certainly something to take into consideration. The median home value lies around $2 million, while the median rent is easily upwards of $2000. Paradise comes at a cost, after all.

irvine, best places to live in orange county
Aerial View of Downtown Irvine

Irvine

Not to be outdone, Irvine is regularly considered one of the most popular and attractive places to live in Orange County for a variety of reasons. The exciting and bustling economy is one of the shining benefits of the city, with a strong presence from entertainment giants like Blizzard Entertainment, Google, and Amazon.

A top-notch school system is another great benefit as well as, of course, prestigious institutions like the University of California, Irvine, and the OC Center of the University of Southern California. Irvine has also been considered the safest big city in the country for nearly a decade which, all things considered, makes it a very popular location for single families.

laguna beach, best place to live in orange county
A view of the Main Beach Coastline in Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach

It might be easy to write off every Orange County city as a beachside paradise—which isn’t a bad thing, don’t get us wrong—but if you’re looking for a bit of a different vibe, Laguna Beach might be the right spot for you. The city has an undeniably artistic vibe, and is a bit less flashy when it comes to showing off net worth. Although you might consider it a seaside resort town, it somehow still manages to feel like a suburb, somewhat more unassuming than its coastal neighbors.

The small-town feel mixed with the artist and entrepreneur population tends to make for interesting and refreshing interactions and relationships that you might not find in other parts of Orange County. The unassuming vibe won’t mean that it doesn’t cost a pretty penny to become a resident, however. Cost of living rivals that of Newport Beach.

We consider these to be some of the best spots for settling down in Orange County that might meet a variety of standards and preferences. From the lifelong sailor to the modest successful artist, there’s a little something for everyone at Orange County. Wherever you end up, we’re happy to see you considering one of our favorite places in the world. Hope to see you here soon!

Want to learn some more cool stuff about Orange County? Check out this great post on the best beaches in the OC.

Ready to take the next step and start a business here? (We love talking about business, see below for why.) Check this post with 7 important steps to consider when starting a business – in Orange County or elsewhere.


Orange County is full of entrepreneurs that run small and large businesses – and we’re here to help them. Who are we? We’re My OC Bookkeeper. Southern California’s premier bookkeeping and business consulting firm. Check us out if you need help with bookkeeping, accounting, or general business support.

Want another opinion on where to live in the OC? Take a look at the video below to see what some of our best local realtors think.