California's population has increased for the second consecutive year, driven largely by growth in major cities such as Bakersfield and San Diego. The data from the California Department of Finance suggests that the mass emigration trend known as the California Exodus is over, with the state nearly returning to its pre-pandemic population levels. Governor Gavin Newsom praised this resurgence, highlighting California's appeal as a destination for those seeking opportunities and quality of life. Despite recent growth, populations in some Bay Area cities, like San Jose and San Francisco, slightly declined.
"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," said Governor Gavin Newsom. "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."
California added about 108,000 people in 2024 after adding nearly 200,000 in 2023. If growth continues, the state should eclipse its pre-pandemic population figure in 2025.
The biggest population winners were Bakersfield, which grew by 1.2% in 2024, and San Diego, which grew by 1%. Los Angeles grew by 0.4%.
The latest numbers for calendar year 2024 confirm the end of the so-called California Exodus that saw the Golden State's population shrink for the first time in decades.
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