California's population experienced growth for the second consecutive year in 2024, reaching over 39.5 million residents, following a period of decline during the COVID-19 pandemic. The increase, which equates to about 1% or an addition of 108,000 people, is attributed to higher birth rates surpassing death rates and improved data on legal immigration. Governor Gavin Newsom highlighted the growth as a reflection of California's robust economy, now larger than Japan's, and praised the state's appeal as a destination for people worldwide seeking the 'California Dream'. Despite this growth, critics have previously linked population declines to the state's homelessness crisis and high living costs, which remain some of the highest in the nation. Population growth was noted in nine out of the ten largest counties, with Los Angeles County seeing a notable increase, while some areas, like Mono County, experienced slight declines.

California's population rose above 39.5 million in 2024, marking the second year of growth after declines during the pandemic, with a 1% increase or 108,000 additional residents compared to 2023.

The growth is partly due to the number of births exceeding deaths and improved accounting for legal immigration, with adults aged 65 and older contributing significantly to the population rise.

Governor Gavin Newsom emphasized the population growth as evidence of California's expanding economy, which has surpassed Japan's and ranks behind only the U.S., China, and Germany.

Newsom highlighted California as a global destination where rights are protected and communities are strengthened, attracting people from across the nation and the world.

Despite recent growth, past population declines were attributed to the state's homelessness issues and high costs of living, including housing, gas, and utilities, which remain among the highest nationwide.

Population increases were observed in nine of the ten largest counties, with Los Angeles County gaining 28,000 residents, while Contra Costa County saw a minor decrease and Mono County experienced a 1.6% decline.

Critics have historically pointed to the significant migration of residents to states like Texas, citing economic challenges as a driving factor behind the movement.