facts
California Latino Demographics 2025
Population
- 15.7 million Latinos in California (approx. 39% of the state population)
- The largest ethnic group in the state
- Younger median age: ~29 years (vs. 37 for non-Latinos)
Geographic Concentration
- High-density Latino communities in:
- Los Angeles County
- Central Valley (Fresno, Tulare, Kern)
- Inland Empire (San Bernardino, Riverside)
- Imperial County
- Northern California (San Jose, Santa Clara, and parts of the Bay Area)
National Standing
- California has the largest Latino population of any state in the U.S.
Latino Voters in California
Voter Population
- Over 6.9 million registered Latino voters (as of 2024)
- Roughly 30–32% of California’s electorate
- Latinos make up the fastest-growing voting bloc.
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Voting Patterns
- Historically vote Democratic (~65-70%)
- High concern for issues like:
- Education Equity
- Economic opportunity
- Healthcare access
- Climate and Environmental Justice
- Immigration reform
- Youth turnout (18–35) has been steadily increasing, but still underperforms compared to older Latino voters
Barriers
- Misinformation/disinformation campaigns
- Underinvestment in Latino voter outreach by traditional parties
- Voter suppression tactics (especially out of state, but monitored here)
- Language access
Latino Representation in California
Elected Officials (2025)
- 5 out of 52 U.S. House Representatives from CA are Latino/a
- 16 Latino State Assemblymembers and 7 Latino State Senators
- Historic figures:
- Alex Padilla (First Latino U.S. Senator from CA)
- Robert Rivas (Speaker of the Assembly)
- Mark Gonzalez, Maria Elena Durazo, Lena Gonzalez, and Susan Rubio are among the prominent Latino legislators.
Gaps
- Underrepresented in executive offices, boards, commissions, judiciary, and county-level elected positions
- Often last hired, first fired in state appointments, and workforce inclusion.
Opportunities for Growth
Latino youth
- Over 50% of public-school students in California are Latino.
- Investing in civic education and engagement now is critical.
Latino-owned businesses
- Over 800,000 Latino-owned businesses in California
- One of the fastest-growing entrepreneurial groups
- Face persistent barriers to capital and public contracts.
Housing & Healthcare
- Latinos are disproportionately impacted by housing instability, environmental racism, and healthcare inequities
The WHY?
1. “Why We Matter”
Highlight California’s Latino majority status, contributions to the economy, and essential workforce roles.
2. “Voter Power” Dashboard
Interactive map or graph of Latino voter data, key counties, and turnout stats.
3. “Our Voice in Sacramento”
List current elected Latino officials and spotlight rising leaders endorsed by the Caucus.
4. “Building Latino Power”
Showcase registration drives, youth leadership programs, and trainings in civic engagement.
5. “Policy Priorities”
- Immigration justice
- Education, equity, and bilingual learning
- Economic opportunity (public contracts, workforce access)
- Healthcare for all
- Climate justice in Latino communities