Food insecurity remains a pressing issue in Los Angeles County. In 2025, about one in four households, or 24%, struggled to afford enough food, similar to the previous year. A recent study from USC highlights the ongoing challenges many face due to high living costs, recovery from wildfires, and changing food assistance policies.
While the overall numbers are troubling, the situation varies. Low-income households have seen some improvements thanks to recent investments in food equity. Kayla de la Haye, a leading researcher in the study, pointed out, “These findings show both encouraging progress and emerging pressures. Many Angelenos outside the safety net are still struggling to keep up with rising costs.”
Efforts like the $20 million allocated to the Food Equity Fund and the creation of the L.A. County Office of Food Systems have made a difference. These initiatives aim to enhance access to affordable and nutritious food. Alongside this, nutrition insecurity has decreased from 29% to 21% in just one year, showing strides in promoting healthier food options, even amidst high prices.
As some low-income residents see relief, higher-income households are increasingly feeling the strain. Despite earning above the eligibility for programs like CalFresh, many families still find it hard to make ends meet. De la Haye noted, “These families often don’t qualify for safety net programs but struggle with high living costs.”
CalFresh plays a vital role in supporting over a million residents monthly. However, in October 2025, around 44% of its participants in L.A. County were still food insecure. This suggests that current benefits aren’t sufficient to cover rising expenses, a concerning trend as federal cuts are on the horizon for 2026.
To tackle this issue, researchers recommend several strategies for 2026:
- Enhance cooperation among agencies to address community needs effectively.
- Improve local data collection to adapt to challenges swiftly.
- Boost outreach for CalFresh to ensure more families receive support.
- Strengthen local food systems to provide access to healthy and affordable food.
- Support policies aimed at financial stability for households earning above safety net thresholds.
- Empower food banks to meet ongoing and emergency needs.
These actions could significantly alleviate the food pressures many residents face in the coming year. The study, based on data from the Understanding America Study, surveyed over 1,200 residents between January and October 2025, revealing vital insights into the landscape of food and nutrition security in L.A. County.
As food insecurity persists, it’s clear that collaborative efforts and continuous investment are needed to ensure every Angeleno has access to nutritious food.
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center for economic and social research,food insecurity,public exchange
