Golden State Today

California’s population increased by 67,000 people last year to 39,128,162, as reported by the California Department of Finance (DOF). The state’s population growth can be attributed to an increase in legal foreign immigration and natural population increasing. Governor Newsom highlighted the appeal of California, stating, “People from across the nation and the globe are coming to the Golden State to pursue the California Dream and experience the success of the world’s 5th largest economy.”

The improvement in federal legal immigration processing backlogs and rebounding legal immigration levels have set a stable foundation for continued growth. The DOF estimates that California is likely to experience continued positive population growth. Net domestic migration has receded to its lower rates of the 2010s, further contributing to the state's growth.

The latest data shows that the population increased in 31 counties, particularly in the Bay Area, Central Valley, and the Inland Empire. Counties like Sutter, Imperial, Glenn, Yuba, and San Benito experienced growth above one percent due to housing gains. Riverside County led the way with an increase of 13,800 residents, while nine of the ten counties with populations over 1 million saw increases, representing 72 percent of the state's total population.

The report also highlights the top five cities where housing production drove population growth, including Paradise, Lathrop, Emeryville, Orland, and Shafter. These cities saw significant percentage increases in population, contributing to the overall growth trend in California.

California's strong economic standing further attracts people to the state. With the most equitable tax system in the country and leading rankings in new business starts, access to venture capital funding, and various industries such as high-tech and agriculture, California continues to be a desirable destination for individuals seeking opportunities and growth.

The data released by the DOF provides valuable insights into California's population trends, showcasing a state that is not only growing in numbers but also in economic prosperity and diverse opportunities for its residents.