California is home to some of the most iconic and fastest-growing cities in the United States. From coastal metropolises to inland hubs, population changes offer key insights into migration patterns, urban development, and regional and county growth.

Official California City Directory:

Before diving into population rankings, here's the state's official directory of incorporated cities in California. Includes each city's official name, law type, population (according to the state directory), and contact information, the table below serves as a helpful reference for exploring the state's diverse municipalities.

California Cities by Population:

Each year, we update this list using the most recent population data from CaliforniaDemographics.com and the latest Census data to reflect how cities across the state are evolving.

Below, you’ll find California cities ranked by population, based on 2025 data.