Local Business
Wednesday, May 13, 2026 · Merced
California Tourism Rebounds as SF Surges, LA Stabilizes
California's tourism industry is clawing back from pandemic lows, with Visit California reporting growth in 55 of 58 counties last year. San Francisco's Bay Area saw travel spending rise 2%, while Los Angeles County posted a slight dip but shows early 2026 hotel revenue gains. Statewide, the sector remains the nation's top draw amid national travel slowdowns.
Bay Area Housing Stabilizes Amid Modest Price Gains
The Bay Area's red-hot residential real estate market is cooling into a more balanced phase, with inventory rising and prices holding steady rather than surging. February data showed median home prices at $1.285 million, up 2.8% year-over-year, as sales jumped 44.1% month-over-month. Buyers in San Francisco and Santa Clara counties face tight supply, while East Bay areas draw value-seekers.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Silicon Valley Startups Surge with $90B VC Haul in 2024
Silicon Valley's tech ecosystem roared back in 2024, capturing 57% of U.S. venture capital at $90 billion amid an AI boom. From Palo Alto to San Jose, emerging companies in fintech and robotics are expanding rapidly. As California residents eye local job growth, the region's dominance signals a bright horizon for innovation.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026