San Diego, California, January 6, 2026
Recent analysis reveals that San Diego is experiencing an unprecedented population growth, surpassing other major metropolitan areas in California. Between 2022 and 2025, the county added approximately 43,000 residents, contributing to about 12% of the state’s total population growth. The city itself added over 30,000 new residents, marking a historic milestone with its population exceeding 1.4 million. Despite the positive growth trends, housing affordability remains a significant challenge for the region, with the average home price continuing to soar.
San Diego’s Population Growth Outpaces Other California Metros
San Diego, California – Recent data indicates that San Diego’s population is growing faster than other major metropolitan areas in California, with the city of San Diego accounting for a significant portion of this increase.
Key Findings
– Population Growth: Between 2022 and 2025, San Diego County added approximately 43,000 residents, representing about 12% of California’s total population growth during this period.
– City of San Diego’s Contribution: The city of San Diego experienced a substantial increase, adding over 30,000 new residents, which pushed its population over 1.4 million for the first time.
– Comparison with Other Counties: In contrast, Los Angeles County saw a population decline during the same period, while Orange County added only 15,000 people.
Factors Influencing Growth
Several factors have contributed to San Diego’s population growth:
– Housing Initiatives: The city has implemented aggressive housing policies to address the state’s housing crisis, including permitting density bonuses and streamlining housing projects.
– Affordability Trends: Despite the growth, San Diego’s housing market remains expensive. As of 2023, nearly 60% of homes are listed above $1 million, with a median home price of $910,000, ranking it fourth among the 30 largest U.S. cities.
Historical Context
Historically, San Diego has been one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the U.S. Since 1970, its growth rate has exceeded that of California, with an average annual increase of 4.2% compared to the state’s 1.4%.
Conclusion
San Diego’s recent population growth underscores the city’s ongoing appeal and the effectiveness of its housing policies. However, challenges related to housing affordability persist, highlighting the need for continued efforts to balance growth with livability.
FAQ
What is the recent population growth in San Diego?
Between 2022 and 2025, San Diego County added approximately 43,000 residents, representing about 12% of California’s total population growth during this period.
How much did the city of San Diego’s population increase?
The city of San Diego added over 30,000 new residents, pushing its population over 1.4 million for the first time.
How does San Diego’s growth compare to other California counties?
During the same period, Los Angeles County experienced a population decline, while Orange County added only 15,000 people.
What factors have contributed to San Diego’s population growth?
Aggressive housing policies, including permitting density bonuses and streamlining housing projects, have contributed to the growth.
What is the current housing market situation in San Diego?
As of 2023, nearly 60% of homes are listed above $1 million, with a median home price of $910,000, ranking it fourth among the 30 largest U.S. cities.
How has San Diego’s population growth trended historically?
Since 1970, San Diego’s growth rate has exceeded that of California, with an average annual increase of 4.2% compared to the state’s 1.4%.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Recent Population Growth | San Diego County added approximately 43,000 residents between 2022 and 2025, accounting for about 12% of California’s total population growth during this period. |
| City of San Diego’s Contribution | The city added over 30,000 new residents, pushing its population over 1.4 million for the first time. |
| Comparison with Other Counties | Los Angeles County experienced a population decline, while Orange County added only 15,000 people during the same period. |
| Housing Market Trends | As of 2023, nearly 60% of homes are listed above $1 million, with a median home price of $910,000, ranking it fourth among the 30 largest U.S. cities. |
| Historical Growth Rate | Since 1970, San Diego’s growth rate has exceeded that of California, with an average annual increase of 4.2% compared to the state’s 1.4%. |
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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.
