California Leads US in CEO Departures with 194 Exits in 2025

California is experiencing a significant shift in corporate leadership, with a reported **194 chief executive officers** leaving their positions in the first nine months of **2025**. According to a recent analysis by workplace consultants **Challenger, Gray & Christmas**, the state has the highest number of CEO exits in the United States, reflecting broader instability in the job market.

Nationwide, **1,650 CEOs** have departed from their roles during the same period, marking a notable trend in executive turnover. This figure is part of a two-year increase in corporate leadership changes, with the total number of CEO exits in the first nine months of **2024** closely mirroring this year’s at **1,652**. Over the past nine years, the median number of CEO departures during this time frame was **1,004**, indicating a **64%** rise in leadership changes.

California’s prominence in these statistics is not surprising, given that it is home to the largest economy in the United States. The state boasts approximately **18 million workers**, representing **11%** of the nation’s total workforce of **159 million**. California companies account for **11%** of the **S&P 500** index and contribute **13%** to the **INC. 5000** list of the fastest-growing companies in America.

The **five additional** CEO departures in California from the previous year signify a slight uptick, with the state accounting for **12%** of all U.S. CEO exits. In comparison, **Texas** follows with **132** departures, while **North Carolina**, **Florida**, and **Pennsylvania** record **102**, **98**, and **75** exits, respectively. Notably, Texas experienced the largest increase in CEO turnover, with an additional **28** exits.

Layoffs and Employment Cuts in California

Alongside CEO departures, California’s job market is facing substantial challenges. The state has announced plans for layoffs affecting **158,700 workers** in the first ten months of **2025**, according to Challenger’s data. This figure makes California the second-largest region for employment cuts nationwide, accounting for **14%** of the **1.1 million** layoffs across the country.

The state with the highest number of layoffs is **Washington, D.C.**, reporting **303,800** job cuts. Following California are **New York** with **81,701**, **Georgia** at **78,049**, and **Washington state** with **77,700** planned layoffs. In comparison, **Texas** ranks seventh with **46,400** planned cuts, while **Florida** is ninth with **22,800**.

California’s planned layoffs have increased by **16%** compared to the previous year, while nationwide, this figure has risen by **4%**. The increase in job losses and CEO exits underscores the shifting dynamics within the corporate landscape, as businesses navigate economic pressures and evolving market conditions.

As the state continues to lead in both CEO departures and layoffs, the implications extend beyond corporate boardrooms. Employees and communities are facing uncertainty as businesses reassess their strategies in a challenging economic environment.