Benefits of Having a Business in Turlock

Turlock – The Silicon Valley of Food Processing, a Regional Retail Hub, and a Vibrant Downtown Community

Located in the heart of California’s Central Valley along Highway 99, Turlock offers businesses a powerful combination of strategic location, strong workforce availability, competitive utilities, and a thriving local economy. With a population of approximately 73,100 residents and more than 640,000 people within a 20-mile radius, Turlock serves as a regional center for commerce, manufacturing, food processing, logistics, and retail.

A key economic driver is the Westside Industrial Specific Plan (WISP), which includes approximately 2,600 acres of industrial and manufacturing development opportunities. This master-planned industrial area supports companies in manufacturing, agriculture, warehousing, logistics, and food processing, providing large sites with access to Highway 99 and a regional workforce of roughly 30,000 workers.

Higher education also plays a critical role in workforce development. California State University Stanislaus, located in Turlock, serves approximately 8,000–10,000 students annually and contributes significantly to the region’s talent pipeline through business, science, healthcare, and technology programs.

Industry Success Stories

Divert, Inc. – A national leader in food waste recycling and sustainability technologies selected Turlock for its Central Valley operations, creating jobs while advancing circular economy solutions.
Dust Bowl Brewing Company – Founded in Turlock, Dust Bowl Brewing has grown into a nationally recognized craft brewery brand, demonstrating the entrepreneurial opportunities available for businesses that start and expand in the city.
Amazon Fulfillment Center – Amazon operates a major distribution facility in Turlock, serving as one of the city’s top employers and a significant contributor to the local economy and sales tax base.

Regional Retail & Quality of Life

Turlock also serves as a regional retail and entertainment destination. The city is home to Monte Vista Crossings, ranked among the top power retail centers in California (#3) and the United States (#8). Historic Downtown Turlock offers a vibrant, highly walkable district featuring diverse restaurants, boutique shopping, local businesses, and community events.

Tourism and community amenities further strengthen Turlock’s economic vitality. Pedretti Sports Park hosts more than 35 regional softball tournaments annually, drawing teams and visitors from across California. The Stanislaus County Fair attracts more than 200,000 visitors during its two‑week run each July, while the Annual Christmas Parade welcomes 20,000–30,000 attendees each year. The Independence Day Parade and numerous downtown events continue to bring residents and visitors together throughout the year.

Turlock’s hospitality industry continues to grow, with more than 10 hotels currently operating and two additional hotels in development to support business travel, tourism, and regional events.

Infrastructure & Business Support

Businesses benefit from Turlock’s strong infrastructure and utility advantages. The city is served by Turlock Irrigation District (TID), which provides reliable and competitively priced electricity. The Stanislaus Regional Water Authority (SRWA) continues to expand long‑term water capacity for both residents and businesses. The City also invests in ongoing roadway and infrastructure improvements to support future growth.

Local partnerships further strengthen the business environment. Organizations such as the Turlock Chamber of Commerce and the Turlock Downtown Property Owners Association work alongside the City to support local businesses, encourage entrepreneurship, and promote community engagement.

The City of Turlock Economic Development Department provides concierge‑style assistance to help businesses navigate site selection, permitting, workforce connections, and available incentives.

Business Advantages in Turlock

Strategic Highway 99 location in California’s Central Valley
Population of 73,100 and more than 640,000 residents within a 20‑mile radius
Westside Industrial Specific Plan – 2,600 acres of industrial and manufacturing opportunity
Regional workforce of approximately 30,000 workers
California State University Stanislaus – 8,000–10,000 students annually
Monte Vista Crossings – top-ranked power retail center in California
Highly walkable Historic Downtown Turlock with diverse restaurants and retail
Pedretti Sports Park attracting regional sports tourism (35+ tournaments annually)
10+ hotels with additional development underway
Major employers including Amazon, Divert, Inc., and leading food processing companies
Competitive electricity rates through Turlock Irrigation District (TID)
Expanded water capacity through the Stanislaus Regional Water Authority (SRWA)
Ongoing roadway and infrastructure improvements
Active Chamber of Commerce and Downtown business organizations
Dedicated Economic Development support and streamlined permitting

City's Monthly Economic Development Reports