State Adds 108,000 Residents in 2024, Reaching 39.5 Million
Sacramento – California’s population grew by 108,000 people in 2024, reaching 39,529,000 residents as of January 1, 2025, according to the California Department of Finance. This marks the second consecutive year of population growth, countering the narrative of a declining state population during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Governor Gavin Newsom highlighted the growth as a sign of the state’s resilience and appeal:
“People from across the nation and the globe are coming to the Golden State to pursue the California Dream, where rights are protected and people are respected,” Newsom stated. “As the fourth largest economy in the world—from the Inland Empire to the Bay Area—regions throughout California are growing, strengthening local communities and boosting our state’s future.”
Key Factors Driving Growth
Several factors contributed to the population increase:
- Natural Increase: Births outnumbered deaths by 114,805 in 2024.
- Education Enrollment: K–8 public school enrollment rose by 13,890 students compared to 2023.
- Aging Population: The number of residents aged 65 and older increased by 25,298.
- Legal Immigration: Improved data collection revealed 277,468 more legal immigrants arrived between 2021 and 2024 than previously estimated.
These factors have offset ongoing domestic outmigration, particularly among younger working Californians seeking affordability elsewhere.
Revised Data and Broader Trends
The Department of Finance also revised previous population estimates:
- January 2024: Growth revised upward to 192,219 residents (from 67,104).
- January 2023: Now shows a gain of 48,764 residents (reversing a previously reported loss of 53,727).
Additionally, the U.S. Census Bureau reported that California gained over 225,000 residents from July 2023 to June 2024, further affirming the state’s demographic rebound.
Population increases were reported in 35 of California’s 58 counties:
- Los Angeles County: Gained 28,000 residents, remaining the most populous county.
- Lassen County: Posted the fastest percentage growth at 2.88%.
- Nine of the ten largest counties: Posted net gains; only Contra Costa County saw a slight decline of 24 residents.
What the Growth Means for California
Despite past declines during the pandemic, California’s recent growth indicates a positive trend. The state’s economy, now ranked as the fourth largest globally, continues to attract residents seeking opportunities and a high quality of life.
The Golden State leads the nation in venture capital access, tourism spending, agriculture, technology, and new business formation. It is also home to the most Fortune 500 and Inc. 5000 companies in the United States.
