Demographics

Los Angeles County, CA, has a population of approximately 9.7 million (2023). The median age is 38 years, with 49% male and 51% female. The racial/ethnic makeup is about 48% Hispanic or Latino, 26% White (non-Hispanic), 14% Asian, 8% Black or African American, and 4% other or multiracial. Los Angeles County is the most populous in the nation, known for its diversity.

Elections

Los Angeles County, California, has over 5.6 million registered voters as of 2024. The county conducts primary, general, municipal, and special elections, often using vote-by-mail and in-person options at 1,000+ Vote Centers. In the 2020 presidential election, 71% voted Democrat and 27% Republican. Key issues include housing, homelessness, and public safety. Elections are administered by the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk. The area features a diverse electorate with Democratic, Republican, and No Party Preference voters, with Democrats holding a majority registration at around 53% of voters.

Education, Employment and Housing

Los Angeles County, CA, serves over 1.5 million K-12 students across 80+ school districts, including more than 300 public high schools. Approximately 32% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The county hosts over 150 colleges and universities, promoting adult education. Average high school graduation rates surpass 80%. School safety is prioritized with district police, though incidents vary. Educational programs range from STEM to arts, with magnet and charter options. Average public school test scores range from 40–70 (CAASPP scale), reflecting diverse demographics and resources.

As of 2023, Los Angeles County, CA, had an unemployment rate of 5.0%. Major employment sectors include Health Care and Social Assistance (14%), Professional and Business Services (13%), and Retail Trade (10%). Most workers (57%) are employed in management, business, science, and arts occupations. About 75% of commuters drive alone to work, with an average commute time of 32 minutes. Key employment hubs include Downtown LA, Santa Monica, and Long Beach, supporting over 5 million jobs countywide.

Los Angeles County, CA, has a homeownership rate of around 47%, with a median home value near $840,000 in 2024. The majority of residents (53%) are renters, with median monthly rents about $2,200. Housing types range from single-family homes in suburbs like Pasadena to high-rise apartments in Downtown LA. Neighborhoods such as Beverly Hills and Santa Monica remain highly desirable. Recent market trends show slight price stabilization after significant growth in 2021–2022. Property taxes average 1.16% of assessed value. Affordability challenges persist, driven by high demand and limited inventory.

County Crime & Safety

Los Angeles County, CA, reported a violent crime rate of 564 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 1,900 per 100,000 in 2023, according to FBI data. Homicides decreased by 5% from the previous year, while burglary and vehicle theft showed a 3% rise. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department received over 250,000 crime reports in 2023. Though public safety initiatives have expanded, challenges remain in high-density neighborhoods. The overall crime rate in Los Angeles County is higher than the national average, prompting ongoing efforts to improve community policing and emergency response.