New data from California’s Department of Finance found that while the state saw a third consecutive population decline in 2022, the decline is slowing. Noting that stable births, fewer deaths, and a rebound in foreign immigration slowed California’s recent population decline last year, the state’s population was estimated to be at 38,940,231 people as of January 1, 2023.
The number of people living in California fell by 138,443 last year. Between 2021-2022, California’s population decreased 0.53 percent or 207,800 persons, due mainly to sharp declines in natural increase and foreign immigration.
2022 did usher in a much-needed housing increase, though, according to the report. Statewide housing growth increased to 0.85 percent—its highest level since 2008.
California added 123,350 housing units on net, including 20,683 accessory dwelling units (ADUs), to bring total housing in the state to 14,707,698 units. New construction represents 116,683 housing units with 63,423 single family housing units, 51,787 multi-family housing units, and 1,473 mobile homes.
Turning back to those who left the Golden State, Texas, Nevada, Idaho and Oregon were cited as the states many moved to, according to the Public Policy Institute of California.
For 2022, natural increase—the net amount of births minus deaths—increased from 87,400 in 2021 to 106,900 in 2022. Births decreased slightly from 420,800 in 2021 to 418,800 in 2022, while deaths declined gradually from 333,300 persons in 2021 to 311,900 persons in 2022, respectively.