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California City Managers: Insights from the 2025 Survey

The California City Management Foundation (CCMF), in collaboration with the Rose Institute of State and Local Government from Claremont McKenna College, has released an insightful report titled the 2025 California City Manager Survey: A Profile of the Profession. This report serves as a follow-up to the initial 2023 survey, offering fresh data on the backgrounds, viewpoints, and ongoing challenges faced by city managers across California.

Understanding City Managers

City managers operate as the chief executives in various local jurisdictions, closely resembling CEOs of private enterprises. They play pivotal roles in navigating and resolving local challenges, as stated by Ken Miller, Director of the Rose Institute. This survey aims to provide valuable insights into the profession, which is evolving to address contemporary governance dynamics.

Key Findings

The 2025 Survey encompassed three vital segments: demographic profiles, employment data, and city-specific insights. The report’s insights are significant for understanding the trajectory of city management in California.

One noteworthy finding is that approximately 24% of city managers are women, surpassing the national average of 23% reported by the International City Managers Association (ICMA) in recent years. This statistic highlights a progressive change in a traditionally male-dominated field. The rise in women holding chief administrative roles is a defining factor in the evolution of leadership within local government, showcasing a shift towards more diverse representation.

In terms of education, the survey indicates that many city managers possess advanced degrees in various fields such as public policy and administration, with the majority hailing from reputable institutions like the University of Southern California. These qualifications enhance their capability to address complex issues encountered in city governance.

Moreover, respondents highlighted pressing community concerns, ranking fiscal health, infrastructure, economic development, housing, and homelessness as the five most critical issues that cities currently face. This prioritization is crucial for policy makers and stakeholders looking to support city managers in their roles.

Demographics and Diversity

The report also points to a slow but steady increase in the racial and ethnic diversity among city managers compared to previous years. Approximately 70% of respondents identified as White, yet there is a notable upward trend in individuals reporting various ethnic backgrounds. In addition to demographic shifts, the age distribution of city managers shows that a significant percentage (77%) are between the ages of 40 and 59, with the largest age group being those aged 51-60. This demographic insight suggests trends in retirement and succession planning in local governance.

Younger city managers tend to hold positions in smaller cities, while larger urban areas often have managers who are in their middle age bracket, reflecting the experience required to tackle larger-scale governance issues.

Commitment to the Future

As the CCMF President, Ken Striplin noted, the increase in diversity among city managers illustrates the critical role of inclusive leadership in effective public service. While there have been slight declines in median tenure rates, the foundation recognizes ongoing professionalization within the field.

In conclusion, the CCMF pledges continued support for recruitment, retention, and professional development in the realm of city management. The findings of this survey serve as a tool for cities aiming to adapt to new workforce trends and uplift the standards in public leadership roles. Through mentorship and strategic investment in talent, the CCMF seeks to ensure that the future of local governance in California is not only progressive but reflective of the state’s vibrant diversity.

For access to the detailed 2025 California City Manager Survey, visit their official website.