News Summary
Recent data reveals a 7% decrease in homelessness in San Diego County, thanks to various efforts and increased housing availability. The city saw an even more notable 14% reduction, though challenges persist, including rising numbers of homeless seniors and individuals living in cars. While the overall trend is positive, experts stress the importance of continuing efforts to address underlying issues in the community.
San Diego County has reported a 7% decrease in homelessness over the past year, lowering the total number of individuals experiencing homelessness from 10,605 in 2024 to at least 9,905 in 2025. The findings come from the annual Point-in-Time Count, which was conducted in January with the help of over 1,700 volunteers countywide. The overall decline reflects various efforts aimed at addressing homelessness alongside a housing boom in the region.
Within the city of San Diego itself, the statistics are even more promising, with a nearly 14% reduction in homelessness. The Point-in-Time Count revealed that there are now 5,714 unsheltered homeless individuals and 4,191 sheltered individuals. Significant demographic shifts were noted, including a 25% decrease in veteran homelessness and a remarkable 72% decrease in unsheltered families.
However, not all trends are positive. The count highlighted a 5% increase in the number of seniors aged 55 and older who are experiencing homelessness, as well as a 7% rise in individuals living in their cars. This statistic raises concerns, particularly as traditional shelters are nearing full capacity, often rejecting individuals who seek emergency beds.
Despite the positive overall trends, critiques regarding the reliability of the Point-in-Time Count have emerged. Observers note a concerning pattern in which more individuals are becoming homeless than are finding permanent solutions. Tamera Kohler, CEO of the Regional Task Force on Homelessness (RTFH), acknowledged the improvements but emphasized the substantial work that still lies ahead.
Several factors have contributed to the recent decrease in homelessness in San Diego County. A stable rental market and an increase in available shelter options have helped, alongside investments in mental health and substance abuse services. Currently, the county is experiencing an apartment boom, with over 4,000 new apartments expected to open, which could alleviate some pressure on the rental market and help stabilize or lower rents in certain areas.
However, San Diego remains one of the more expensive cities in the United States, with average rents in central city neighborhoods hovering around $1,997 per month, although this represents a slight decline of 0.1% annually. Mayor Todd Gloria has reaffirmed the city’s commitment to reduce homelessness through innovative housing strategies and enhanced partnerships with various stakeholders.
The count, conducted as a snapshot on a single night, may not fully capture the realities of homelessness in San Diego County. In particular, a report from the San Diego County Medical Examiner noted an increase in deaths among the unhoused population, with 2,616 homeless deaths recorded in 2024. These figures highlight ongoing challenges within the community.
Advocates for the homeless have expressed concerns that the reported data may not accurately reflect the lived experiences of those on the streets. While some cities in the region, including Carlsbad (15%), Encinitas (12%), and Oceanside (9%) have reported reductions in homelessness, El Cajon experienced a significant increase of 21.6%.
Despite the strides made over the past year, structural issues like a lack of affordable housing continue to impede long-term solutions for homelessness. Both city officials and community advocates acknowledge the need for ongoing efforts to address these challenges and ensure that all residents have access to safe and stable housing.
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HERE Resources
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Budget Cuts Threaten Food Assistance Programs in San Diego
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Additional Resources
- San Diego Union Tribune: Kudos and Caveats on Drop in San Diego Homeless Count
- NBC San Diego: Homelessness Down Across San Diego County
- Axios: 2025 Homeless Count San Diego
- County News Center: Annual Count Shows Decline in County’s Unsheltered Population
- Wikipedia: Homelessness in the United States
