Learn languages naturally with fresh, real content!

tap to translate recording

Explore By Region

flag California’s $497 billion state debt, $12,500 per resident, driven by unpaid bonds and rising spending, exceeds all other states.

flag California has the highest state debt in the U.S., totaling $497 billion in 2023, or about $12,500 per resident, with total government debt exceeding $1 trillion when local and school district obligations are included. flag The report cites long-term liabilities like unpaid bond debt, pensions, and retiree health benefits as major contributors, with $111.8 billion in unpaid bonds—the highest in the nation. flag Since 2019, per capita spending has risen 50%, adding $106.3 billion in costs. flag The state’s $325 billion preliminary budget faces criticism for relying on optimistic revenue projections. flag Other high-debt states include New York, Illinois, Texas, New Jersey, and Massachusetts. flag Washington state ranks eighth with $97 billion in state debt, rising to $143 billion with local debt. flag The report urges fiscal reforms, but California officials did not comment.

5 Articles