Study Sheds Light On 500,000 Young Californians Missing From The Economy

On October 17, 2025, Jodeah Wilson, 22, was working on his laptop in his off-campus Sacramento State University apartment. A former student, Wilson left his studies this semester due to tuition affordability issues. Financial constraints loom large as he scrambles to gather funds for rent and unpaid tuition, which would allow him to re-enroll. “All I need is a job to settle my debts,” he declared, yet months of searching have yielded no results.California is grappling with nearly 500,000 youth aged 16 to 24 who are not in school or employed, a complex issue tied not only to finances but also to social and emotional challenges. Governor Gavin Newsom has highlighted alarming trends, particularly affecting young men, who face increasing rates of disconnection and mental health struggles. Experts like Kristen Lewis stress that many need more than employment—they need guidance, support, and opportunities to recover from past traumas.