California’s population is about 39.4 million people as of 2024 estimates, making it the most populous state in the United States. The California Department of Finance reported that the state reached around 39.5 million residents by January 1, 2025, reflecting a continuation of recent growth. These figures place California well ahead of Texas and Florida in population share among U.S. states. Key points:
- Latest official estimates place California’s population in the high 39 millions range in 2024–2025.
- Population growth in recent years has been modest but positive, continuing a multiyear trend of gradual increases.
- For context, California accounts for roughly one-fifth of the U.S. population, reinforcing its status as the most populous state.
If you’d like, I can provide exact numbers from the California Department of Finance’s most recent release or compare California’s growth to other large states using up-to-date figures.
