California at a Glance: Population, Geography, and Capital

California: The Golden State

California is the most populous state in the United States, home to over 39 million residents, and the third‑largest by land area. It stretches along the Pacific Ocean on the country’s western edge. The state capital is Sacramento, while major metropolitan areas include Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego.

Its diverse geography encompasses coastal ranges, the Central Valley, the Sierra Nevada mountains, and arid deserts like the Mojave. This variety drives a massive economy—larger than many nations—powered by technology, entertainment, agriculture, and tourism.