L.A.'s Cost of Living Crisis

Before the economic crunch caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, thousands of Angelenos were already facing rising costs, stagnant wages and a statewide housing shortage, leaving thousands without shelter.  As many as 17% of residents were living in poverty , and estimates show that the number has likely increased over the past two and a half years.

Use the map on the left to look up the poverty rate for census tracts across L.A. County. Zoom out to see how L.A. compares to other counties in the United States.

Now, as high inflation impacts families and economic uncertainty lingers, the reality of soaring food, gas, and housing prices is taking a toll on working families up and down the Golden State. While the worst of the crisis arrived with the pandemic, Los Angeles has long faced unique challenges that have left far too many unable to realize the California Dream.

Explore L.A. Controller Ron Galperin’s story map below to learn more about how soaring prices are affecting people throughout the region.

Los Angeles is a city unlike any other in the nation. Home to four million people, it is the second largest economy of any U.S. metro area and a hub for many industries—from technology and innovation to transportation and manufacturing.

But Los Angeles has long faced myriad pressing challenges. The high cost of housing, goods and services hampers economic mobility for the L.A.'s working families. Services such as  childcare and the price of college tuition remain out of reach  for too many and—despite recent growth—wages have failed to keep up with the cost of living. 

During the pandemic, California's unemployment rate  rose by 1.4 percentage points, the state's largest increase since 1976 . Los Angeles saw unprecedented demand at food banks at the time, with cars lined up for miles to receive critical supplies. Since then, food insecurity has only continued to get worse. As recently as April 2022,  food banks across the state reported a surge in new visitors seeking services due to the rising cost of consumer goods . Controller Galperin’s Office has focused extensively on food insecurity and released a map of more than 1,400 food pantries, food banks and other locations distributing free food to those who need it.

Use the map below to find food pantries, food banks and other organizations offering free food to families in need.

Today, Angelenos are facing  nearly 9% inflation , impacting the price of necessities like food, clothing, energry and gas. While recent data indicates that some costs—including the price of gas—may be leveling off a bit, tens of thousands of local families are still struggling to get by.

While many of the factors that have contributed to inflation and economic uncertainty are beyond invidual or local control, it is critical to do everything possible to safeguard L.A. and it's residents against future financial turmoil. After all, a Los Angeles where everyone can thrive (not just survive) is a healthier Los Angeles for all. Here are some actions local leaders can consider to protect Angelenos and the local economy.