SpaceX to Build World's Largest Private Spaceport in Louisiana
SpaceX, in collaboration with Louisiana's state government, has announced the development of 'Starbase, Louisiana,' which is set to become the largest private spaceport in the world. The announcement was made on August 25, 2026, during an event in Abbeville, Louisiana, attended by SpaceX representatives and Governor Jeff Landry.
The project will involve a $100 billion investment and will be located on a 125,000-acre site of former Exxon land near Pecan Island, approximately 200 miles west of New Orleans. The spaceport is designed to include five launch complexes, each with two launch pads, and will feature additional infrastructure such as a propellant farm, vehicle processing facilities, and employee housing.
Construction is scheduled to begin in 2027, with the first launch targeted for 2029. Once fully operational, the site could accommodate thousands of launches annually, potentially supporting up to 30 Starship flights per day. The development is expected to generate 3,000 direct jobs over ten years, with an average salary of $92,600, and an additional 8,100 indirect jobs, totaling 11,100 new job opportunities in the region.
Louisiana Economic Development facilitated the agreement, offering incentives including tax rebates, a $25 million charitable donation, and a payment-in-lieu-of-taxes agreement, which will generate over $820 million in local payments over 25 years. The site was chosen for its abundant natural gas supply, coastal access, and large area, which suits infrastructure needs and potential conservation efforts. SpaceX plans to collaborate with local conservation groups to mitigate environmental impacts.
It is important to note that the Department of the Air Force's STEM program, also named 'STARBASE Louisiana,' is not affiliated with SpaceX's project.