LA County overdose deaths drop for third straight year—except for seniors

Drug-related overdose deaths in Los Angeles County have fallen for the third year in a row. The total number of accidental overdose and poisoning deaths dropped by 6% from 2024 to 2025, reaching 2,298. This continues a broader decline since 2022, with overall deaths decreasing by nearly 30%. The downward trend spans most age groups, with one exception. Adults aged 65 and older saw a 14% rise in overdose deaths in 2025. Middle-aged residents, those between 40 and 64, still made up the majority of cases, accounting for 53% of the total.

Fentanyl and methamphetamine remained the most common drugs involved in overdoses. Fentanyl-related deaths fell sharply by 40% between 2022 and 2025, while methamphetamine-related deaths declined by 25% in the same period. Despite this drop, fentanyl had already overtaken methamphetamine as the leading cause of overdose deaths by 2022.

Disparities persisted across communities and demographics. Areas where 30% or more of residents live below the poverty line recorded higher overdose death rates than wealthier neighbourhoods with less than 10% poverty. Black residents experienced the highest overdose death rates in the county in 2025. The overall reduction in overdose deaths marks a significant shift in Los Angeles County. The declines in fentanyl and methamphetamine fatalities contribute to the broader downward trend. However, the rise in deaths among older adults and ongoing disparities highlight areas needing continued attention.