The presence of Homestead Air Reserve Base (HARB) has fueled economic growth in South Miami-Dade County for decades, dating back to the Homestead Army Air Field days in the 1940s.
As a pillar of the local community, HARB continues to be a major contributor to the economic growth of South Florida, generating over $364 million into the local economy in fiscal year 2023, according to the base finance office.
Currently, the base employs about 3,000 people who live in the Homestead, Miami-Dade County and Monroe County communities. This includes 1,300 traditional Air Force Reservists who drill monthly at the base. The 482d Fighter Wing, an Air Force Reserve unit, is the installation host.
HARB's total payroll for FY 2023 is in excess of $151 million.
The estimated number of indirect jobs created is more than 1,400 valued at about $103 million.
The military presence also directly impacts the local economy through many subtle, yet important, contributions. Auto fleet maintenance, linen and laundry service, purchases from local beverage distributors, grounds maintenance, and contracted electrical, painting and plumbing work are other examples of the direct economic impact on the local community, totaling in the millions of dollars.
(Current as of February 2024)