The milestone isn’t much of a surprise, given that other studies already put the city’s population at 4 million. Shoppers fill a sidewalk in downtown Los Angeles in 1980. (Larry Davis / Los Angeles Times)Population: 3.4 millionThe 1980s saw a boom that took many experts by surprise. (Bob Carey / Los Angeles Times)Population: 3.6 millionGrowth slowed again in the 1990s, as the region was hit by a severe recession, riots and the Northridge earthquake. ALSOHow does L.A. celebrate 'La La Land' Day?

Source: Los Angeles Times May 02, 2017 16:53 UTC