What does 2026 hold for the Sacramento region’s economy? We asked experts for their views

The Abridged version:

• Major projects are in the works across the Sacramento region in 2026, potentially redefining communities.
• Abridged asked regional economic leaders about their hopes for the coming year.  
• Economic organizations are optimistic that Sacramento’s growth will continue to outpace other parts of California.

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The year ahead will be pivotal for the Sacramento region’s ever-changing economy.

Plans are taking shape for a new downtown campus for Sacramento State and live music venues around the region. Investments are being made in other communities around the region, including Rancho Cordova and its ambitious plan to create a new city center.

Abridged by PBS KVIE asked local economic leaders for their thoughts and hopes for the region’s economy in 2026. The responses cover a wide range of viewpoints, from the importance of big events to the vitality of our neighborhoods.

Here’s what they had to say:

Cathy Rodriguez Aguirre

President and CEO, Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

Looking ahead to 2026, I’m encouraged by the continued opening of brick-and-mortar businesses and the emergence of new entrepreneurs across Greater Sacramento. These businesses represent confidence, resilience and long-term investment in our region. Hispanic-owned businesses are playing a significant role in job creation and economic growth, strengthening our communities and local economy.

As a regional chamber, we are committed to connecting entrepreneurs with the resources, partnerships and advocacy they need to thrive. Our hope is that 2026 brings sustained support for small businesses, workforce development and inclusive economic strategies that allow this momentum to continue.

Michael Ault

Executive Director, Downtown Sacramento Partnership

My hope for the Sacramento economy in 2026 is simple: that we keep showing up with purpose. At Downtown Sacramento Partnership, we’re invested in this community and believe confidence in our market becomes lasting commitment when people are present. Recent health care and innovation expansions signal opportunity, but cities also rely on emotional investment. A strong downtown — one with in-person collaboration, creativity and civic pride — reflects the health of the entire region. When our shared spaces are active, they signal prosperity, attract capital and help build the vibrant, inclusive city this community deserves.

Barry Broome

President and CEO, Greater Sacramento Economic Council

In 2026, the national economic outlook will remain cool and soft, driven largely by policy inconsistency at the federal and state levels that is tempering major investment decisions. California will continue to face challenges, particularly due to the condition of its cities and the ongoing struggles in the Los Angeles market, which represents roughly 25% of the state’s economy.

Greater Sacramento, however, will remain the leading market in California, as it has for the past several years. We are outpacing the Bay Area in semiconductor job growth and expect to exceed state averages in GDP growth, job creation, market expansion and attraction of young talent. Our strength in semiconductors will provide resilience through 2026, alongside renewed momentum in clean technology, battery storage and the bioeconomy. Continued progress at UC Davis, including Aggie Square, will further fuel innovation. Despite a cooling national economy, Greater Sacramento’s outlook in 2026 remains solid and positive.

Robert Heidt

President and CEO, Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce

As the CEO of the Sacramento Metro Chamber, my hope for 2026 is a capital region economy defined by growth, adaptability and shared opportunity. As hybrid work reshapes how we live and work, we see downtown evolving into a vibrant hub for connection, commerce and culture. We want to see continued strength across health care, life sciences, logistics and innovation, with businesses driving jobs and prosperity. By investing in housing, infrastructure and workforce development and strengthening collaboration across business, education and government, we can turn today’s transitions into long term economic strength and ensure the region remains competitive, resilient and inclusive.

Pat Fong Kushida

President and CEO, Sacramento Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce

I believe that the Sacramento business community will be more diversified, resilient and by necessity innovation driven. Growth in our leading industry sectors will continue alongside the challenges of Sacramento’s public sector foundation.  Small businesses and startups will play a larger role, supported by increased collaboration, local investment and workforce development initiatives. 

Hybrid work and AI tools will reshape how businesses operate, expanding opportunities beyond traditional boundaries. At the same time, equity, sustainability and community impact will need to be central priorities, as businesses respond to housing, climate and workforce challenges while trying to maintain steady growth. 

Mike Testa

President and CEO, Visit Sacramento

Visitor spending will continue to contribute millions of dollars to our local economy, with exciting new events making their debut. 2026 marks the first time that Sacramento will host the Sweet Sixteen and Elite Eight rounds for Women’s March Madness basketball, and June will see the X Games League launch its new global competition, with Sacramento as the first stop. Then it’s mainstays like Tower Bridge Dinner, Grand Tasting, Aftershock and IRONMAN. Between overlapping conventions, sporting events and festivals, Visit Sacramento has programmed 600+ event days into 2026 that will bring measurable economic prosperity to Sacramento’s businesses and residents.

Ryan Lillis is the Associate General Manager of News at PBS KVIE.