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.
White
Other race
Two or more races
Asian
Black or African American
Native American
Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander
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.