LA County Sees Third Straight Year of Declining Overdose Deaths

Accidental drug overdoses have long been the leading cause of unintentional deaths in Los Angeles County, exceeding fatalities from vehicle crashes and firearms combined. New data now shows a sustained decline in these deaths for the third consecutive year. In 2025, Los Angeles County recorded 2,298 accidental drug overdose and poisoning deaths, marking a 6% drop from the previous year. This continues a broader downward trend, with total deaths falling by 30% since 2022.

Fentanyl-related fatalities saw a significant reduction of 40% over the same period. Methamphetamine-related deaths also decreased by 25%. Both drugs had previously driven overdose numbers, with fentanyl overtaking methamphetamine as the most common cause in 2022.

The decline in overdose deaths was observed across most age groups. However, those aged 40 to 64 remained the hardest hit, accounting for 53% of cases in 2025. The only exception was adults aged 65 and older, where deaths rose by 14%. The county has now seen three straight years of falling overdose deaths. The reductions in fentanyl and methamphetamine-related fatalities contributed most to the overall decline. Despite progress, older adults and middle-aged residents continue to face the highest risks.