Los Angeles County recorded 2,438 drug-related overdose and poisoning deaths in 2024 — the lowest total since 2019 and a 22% decline from 3,137 deaths in 2023, the most significant single-year drop in county history. This data comes from the LA County Department of Public Health and the county's Medical Examiner.
Source: LA County Department of Public Health, June 2025 — lacounty.govLA County Overdose Deaths: Key Numbers (2024)
Total overdose deaths: 2,438 (↓22% from 3,137 in 2023). Rate: 24.8 per 100,000 population — the lowest since 2019. Fentanyl deaths: 1,263 (↓37% from 2,001 in 2023). Methamphetamine: meth-related deaths down 20% from 2023; meth returned to #1 drug type in 2024. Fentanyl share of all OD deaths: 52% (down from 64% in 2023). Peak year: 2022, with 3,220 deaths (32.9 per 100,000).
Who Is Most Affected?
Adults 40–64: most affected age group by raw numbers. Adults 26–39: highest rate when adjusted for population size. Males die from fentanyl at 4.4× the rate of females. Black residents: 31.7/100k — highest rate. White residents: 18.9/100k. Hispanic/Latino residents: 10.6/100k, representing the highest raw number of fatalities. El Monte is a predominantly Hispanic/Latino community in the heart of these numbers.
Fentanyl's Trajectory in LA County
Fentanyl deaths in LA County grew 1,652% from 2016 (109 deaths) to 2022 (1,910 deaths). The 37% decline in 2024 is the first significant reduction since county officials began routine fentanyl testing. County officials cite expanded naloxone distribution, treatment access, and harm reduction programming as contributors.
Methamphetamine in Los Angeles County
Methamphetamine returned to the #1 drug type in LA County overdose deaths in 2024, following fentanyl's sharp decline. Meth deaths decreased 20% from 2023 but remain a significant cause of mortality. The San Gabriel Valley — where Evergreen Wellness is located — has historically experienced above-average meth burden.
Resources and How to Get Help
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use in the San Gabriel Valley, help is available. Call (213) 461-2298 to speak with a placement advisor — 24/7. For immediate crisis support: 988 (call or text). LA County SASH Hotline: 1-844-804-7500. Naloxone is available without a prescription at most California pharmacies and free at LA County Library locations.