California's Central Valley

Migration is the leading source of population growth in the valley. Since 1970, over half (59%) of the valley’s growth has been due to migration, with the remainder due to natural increase (the excess of births over deaths). In the 2000s, migration has been even more important, accounting for two-thirds of population growth in the valley. Most of the migrants are from other parts of California. Jobs, housing, and family are the primary reasons for migrating to the valley.