Unicorn race! How long it took LA's tech unicorns to reach their mythical status

Los Angeles and Orange County have the perfect climate for unicorns. But who was the fastest? Jockied by now legendary founders like Elon Musk and Evan Spiegel, these seven unicorns all strode across the finish line at different times in the last 15 years. There are a few LA startups that have made the final turn.

Written by Patrick Hechinger
Published on Apr. 04, 2016
Unicorn race! How long it took LA's tech unicorns to reach their mythical status

Los Angeles and Orange County have the perfect climate for unicorns. But who was the fastest?

Jockied by now legendary founders like Elon Musk and Evan Spiegel, these seven unicorns all strode across the finish line at different times in the last 15 years. There are a few LA startups that have made the final turn (we're looking at you 

In the heart of Marina Del Rey, serviced by banks, grocery stores, coffee shops, movie theater and restaurants.
 and 

) but as of today, here are the one's that have reached the $1 billion valuation:

16 years: Razer was founded in 2005 and reached $1 billion in October 2014. 

Most recent valuation: $1.5 billion

 

10 Years: SpaceX was founded in June 2002 and reached $1 billion in December 2012.

Most recent valuation: $10 billion

 

8 years: NantHealth was founded in June 2007 and reached $1 billion in August 2015. 

Most recent valuation: $2 billion

 

7 years: Auction.com was founded in June 2007 and reached $1 billion in March 2014.

Most recent valuation: $1.2 billion

 

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4 years, six months: JustFab was founded in March 2010 and reached $1 billion August 2014

Most recent valuation: $1 billion

 

4 years: The Honest Company was founded in June 2011 and reached $1 billion in August 2015. 

Most recent valuation: $1.7 billion

 

2 years, 3 months: Snapchat was founded in September 2011 and reached $1 billion in December 2013. 

Most recent valuation: $17 billion

 

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