California is a state in the Pacific region of the United States, known for the Pacific coastline, Sierra Nevada range, and diverse ecosystems. It has a population of 39,663,800, making it the most populated state in the country. The capital city is Sacramento. California has a tech-driven economy with entertainment and agricultural strengths.
Data after 2023 is projected based on recent change
The racial composition of California includes 43.95% White, 17.38% other race, 15.28% Asian, 5.54% Black or African American, and smaller percentages for Native American, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander and multiracial populations.
Race | Population | Percentage (of total) |
|---|---|---|
| White | 17,248,750 | 43.95% |
| Other race | 6,820,298 | 17.38% |
| Two or more races | 6,410,240 | 16.33% |
| Asian | 5,997,074 | 15.28% |
| Black or African American | 2,173,348 | 5.54% |
| Native American | 445,219 | 1.13% |
| Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander | 147,827 | 0.38% |
Married
Widowed
Divorced
Separated
Never Married
California's average per capita income is $54,437. Household income levels show a median of $96,334. The poverty rate stands at 11.97%.
Name | Median | Mean |
|---|---|---|
| Married Families | $132,245 | $178,126 |
| Families | $110,108 | $152,870 |
| Households | $96,334 | $136,730 |
| Non Families | $61,846 | $93,218 |
Average Income
Median Household Income
Poverty Rate
California’s population is anchored by Los Angeles County, home to over 9.5 million residents despite a 4.4% decline since 2020. The state’s population shifts show a complex pattern: while coastal urban counties are experiencing declines, with San Francisco County dropping 6.8% and San Mateo County falling 5.4%, inland regions are growing significantly. Riverside County leads the growth at 14.4%, while smaller counties like Lassen County and Alpine County have seen dramatic declines of 17.9% and 13.4% respectively. The state shows extreme population density variations, from San Francisco’s 17,264 people per square mile to Inyo County‘s sparse 2 people per square mile despite its vast area.