San Diego County, December 21, 2025
San Diego County experienced a population increase of 0.32% in fiscal year 2025, reaching 3,336,081 residents. This growth can be attributed primarily to a rebound in international immigration, a trend not seen in other major California counties like Los Angeles, which faced a decline. Projections suggest the county could reach about 3.62 million residents by 2035, emphasizing the need for future infrastructure planning as the region continues to attract new residents.
San Diego County’s Population Grows by 0.32% in Fiscal Year 2025
San Diego County’s population increased by 0.32% in fiscal year 2025, reaching 3,336,081 residents, according to data from the California Department of Finance.
Key Details
- Previous Population Estimate: 3,325,274 in fiscal year 2024.
- Numeric Increase: 10,807 residents.
- Statewide Growth: California’s population grew by 0.05% in the same period, totaling 39,529,000 people.
- National Context: The U.S. population increased by 1.1% between 2023 and 2024, with nearly 90% of metropolitan areas experiencing growth.
Factors Influencing Growth
The population increase in San Diego County is primarily attributed to international immigration, which rebounded from pandemic lows. In fiscal year 2024, California experienced a net international migration gain of 260,000 people, the highest level since 2018. This influx contributed significantly to the overall population growth in the state and county.
Comparative Data
While San Diego County experienced modest growth, other major California counties saw declines. Los Angeles County, for instance, had a population decrease of nearly 28,500 residents in fiscal year 2025, driven by higher domestic migration and a significant decrease in net international migration.
Historical Context
Prior to the pandemic, San Diego County’s population had been growing steadily. However, during the pandemic years, the county experienced a slight decline, with a decrease of 0.1% between 2020 and 2024. The recent uptick in fiscal year 2025 marks a return to positive growth trends.
Looking Ahead
Projections indicate that San Diego County’s population will continue to grow, with estimates reaching approximately 3.62 million by 2035, reflecting a 10.1% increase compared to 2022. This anticipated growth underscores the county’s ongoing appeal and the importance of planning for future infrastructure and services to accommodate the expanding population.
Related Developments
- Housing Development: San Diego County is on track to exceed state-mandated housing goals, with 84% of the target already met just four years into the eight-year cycle.
- Tourism Impact: The county welcomed an estimated 32 million visitors in fiscal year 2024, contributing a record $14.6 billion in direct spending to the local economy.
Weather Update
As of Sunday, December 21, 2025, the weather in San Diego is cloudy with a temperature of 61°F (16°C). The forecast for the upcoming week includes areas of low clouds and fog early in the mornings, with temperatures ranging from lows in the low 50s to highs in the mid-60s Fahrenheit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was San Diego County’s population in fiscal year 2025?
San Diego County’s population was 3,336,081 in fiscal year 2025, marking a 0.32% increase from the previous year.
How does this growth compare to statewide trends?
California’s population grew by 0.05% in fiscal year 2025, reaching 39,529,000 people, indicating that San Diego County’s growth rate was higher than the state average.
What factors contributed to San Diego County’s population increase?
The primary factor was international immigration, which rebounded from pandemic lows, contributing significantly to the population growth.
How does San Diego County’s growth compare to other major California counties?
While San Diego County experienced modest growth, other major counties like Los Angeles saw declines, with Los Angeles County losing nearly 28,500 residents in fiscal year 2025.
What are the future population projections for San Diego County?
Projections estimate that San Diego County’s population will reach approximately 3.62 million by 2035, reflecting a 10.1% increase compared to 2022.
Key Features of San Diego County’s Population Growth
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Population in Fiscal Year 2025 | 3,336,081 residents |
| Percentage Increase | 0.32% from fiscal year 2024 |
| Statewide Population Growth | 0.05% increase, totaling 39,529,000 people |
| Primary Growth Factor | International immigration rebound |
| Comparison to Other Counties | Los Angeles County experienced a decline of nearly 28,500 residents |
| Future Projections | Population expected to reach approximately 3.62 million by 2035 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
San Diego Rescue Mission Offers Holiday Meals and Services
San Diego City Council Disbands Cost-of-Living Committee
San Diego County’s Population Growth: Insights for 2025
Winter Wonderland Fashion Show Shines in San Diego
San Diego Welcomes DESI RAVE – Bollywood GLOW Party
California Wolf Center’s Conservation Efforts Near Julian
Phoenix Tops U.S. Cities for Startup Growth and Density
The Iris at San Ysidro: Affordable Housing Solution Opens
Sheriff’s Deputies Search for Two Felony Suspects in Lakeside
U.S. and Mexico Agree to Tackle Tijuana River Sewage Crisis
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
