California Reports First Population Increase Since 2020

The state's population growth is attributed to improved immigration policies, natural population increase, and a reduction in mortality rates.

California's population grew by over 67,000 residents in 2023, marking the first increase since the pandemic began.
Southern California led the growth, with significant population increases in counties like Riverside and Orange.
Legal foreign immigration and natural growth (births exceeding deaths) were key factors contributing to the population rise.
Despite the growth, California's population is still about 400,000 below its pre-pandemic level.
The state added over 115,000 new housing units in 2023, aiding in accommodating the growing population.