Drug-related overdose deaths in Los Angeles County fell by 22% in 2024, marking the largest annual decline on record, according to a new report released Wednesday by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health.
The county saw overdose deaths drop from 3,137 in 2023 to 2,438 last year, the lowest number recorded since 2019.
The data, collected by the county’s Department of Medical Examiner and analyzed by the Bureau of Substance Abuse Prevention and Control, also shows a 37% reduction in fentanyl-related fatalities and a 20% decline in methamphetamine-related deaths compared with 2023.
In 2024, adults aged 26–39 years had the highest rate of fentanyl overdose deaths (22.7 per 100,000 population). Men continued to account for more deaths than women.
When categorized by race, Latinos accounted for the largest number of fentanyl overdose deaths (508), followed by white (456), Black (232), and Asians (26), according to the report.
However, after adjusting for population size, the highest rates per 100,000 population were among Black residents (29.0), followed by white residents (17.4), Latinos (10.5), and Asians (1.7).
The report also noted that the rate of fentanyl overdose deaths was nearly four times higher in the least affluent areas, with more than 30% of families living below the federal poverty level, or FPL, compared to the most affluent areas, with less than 10% of families living below FPL.
Despite the disparities, Public Health officials are hopeful that their efforts are saving lives.
“The recent decline in overdose deaths across Los Angeles County is a hopeful sign that our shared commitment to saving lives is having an impact,” L.A. County Public Health Director Barbara Ferrer said in a statement. “This progress reflects the dedication of countless staff and community partners who work every day to connect people with life-saving resources and care. While we are encouraged by this trend, we know the work is far from over.
County investments increased dramatically in 2024, with funding for substance-use prevention up by more than 260%, treatment up by 275%, and harm-reduction services by more than 500%.
Initiatives included the Fentanyl Frontline multimedia campaign to encourage the use of naloxone, and the launch of ByLAforLA.org, a community-powered website offering harm-reduction resources.
County officials urge anyone struggling with substance use to call 800‑854‑7771 (Option 2) anytime for support.
