almost 40 million people live in California

begin quotes:

California's population is approximately 39.4 million residents, maintaining its status as the most populous state in the United States. Estimates vary slightly depending on the reporting agency, with the U.S. Census Bureau placing the population at roughly 39.35 million and the California Department of Finance estimating 39.53 million. 

A quick breakdown of California's population data highlights:

• Current Trend: After experiencing a plateau and slight declines during the pandemic, the population has mostly stabilized and slightly rebounded in recent years. 
• National Standing: California accounts for over 11% of the entire U.S. population, easily outpacing Texas and Florida, which rank second and third
  .
   
Demographics: The state is highly diverse, with no single race or ethnic group making up an outright majority. White, Hispanic, and Asian communities make up the largest demographic segments. 

For more detailed demographic breakdowns or to explore population changes by specific county, check out the U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts or the Public Policy Institute of California overview. 

• California's Population - Public Policy Institute of California

  California's Population * With 39.5 million people (according to July 2025 estimates), California is the nation's most populous st...

  

  

  Public Policy Institute of California
• Opinion | CA population has hit a plateau. So will its political clout

  In December, the state agency declared that as of last July, California's population was 39.529 million, a gain of 19,200 since 20...

  

  

  CalMatters
• E-6. Population Estimates and Components of Change by County

  California's population grew by about 19,200, or 0.05 percent, in the year ending July 1, 2025, reaching 39,529,000 people, accord...

  

  California Department of Finance (.gov)

Show all