Counties Map Where is California? Outline Map Key Facts California, nicknamed the Golden State, sits on the United States Western coast. It borders the states of Arizona, Nevada, and Oregon. Additionally, it extends southward to Mexico and is bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west.In 1848, the United States acquired California from Mexico, marking the end of the Mexican-American War. It officially became the 31st state in the Union two years later in 1850.Population and CitiesWith a population of approximately 39 million people, California is the most populous state in the country. The capital of California, Sacramento, is situated in the northern part of the state, while Los Angeles, California’s most populated city, sprawls along the southern Pacific coast. San Francisco, San Jose, San Diego, and Long Beach are also major cities.AreaWith a land area of 163,696 mi² (423,971 km²), California is the third largest state in the US, surpassed by only Alaska and Texas. It is roughly the…