Homelessness across San Diego County declined by 7% compared to last year, according to new data from the region’s annual Point-in-Time Count.
The count, conducted in January by more than 1,700 volunteers across the county through the Regional Task Force on Homelessness (RTFH), offers a one-day snapshot of the minimum number of people experiencing homelessness in the region.
Why it matters
The RTFH on Tuesday released results from the count, showing a 72% drop in unsheltered family homelessness countywide and a 25% decrease in veteran homelessness.
“San Diegans should feel good about this data" said RTFH Board Chair Veronica Dela Rosa. "While we must continue to invest in proven strategies that make a difference, this year’s Point-in-Time Count indicates our region is making the right kind of investments in critical system infrastructure and programs.”
By the numbers
While overall homelessness is down, the 2025 Point-in-Time Count found 9,905 people experiencing homelessness — down from 10,605 in 2024. That includes 5,714 unsheltered individuals and 4,191 in shelters or transitional housing.
Outside the city of San Diego, some of the largest declines in homelessness were seen in cities like Carlsbad, Encinitas and Oceanside.
“We need more places for people to go,” said Greg Anglea, CEO of Interfaith Community Services. “Part of the reason why we've seen a decrease in unsheltered homelessness in North County is that in the last year, more of those places have opened — treatment programs, recuperative care programs, navigation centers.”
He said the key in North County is the collaboration between cities, nonprofits and the county.
“Encampment bans and enforcement alone do not reduce homelessness, but when those things are also included along with resources to actually help people, then they can actually be a part of reducing overall homelessness,” Anglea said.
Citywide reductions
● City of San Diego: 15%⬇
● Carlsbad: 15%⬇
● Encinitas: 12%⬇
● Oceanside: 9%⬇
● La Mesa: 9%⬇
● Chula Vista: 6%⬇
But the RTFH says some trends remain concerning:
- 1 in 3 unsheltered individuals are 55 or older
- 50% of seniors experiencing homelessness are doing so for the first time
- 3% increase in seniors living in vehicles
- 5% increase in first-time homelessness among seniors
- 7% increase in people living in vehicles
- 81% of those surveyed said they became homeless in San Diego County
The data also shows a 22% decrease in homelessness among transitional-age youth (18–24).
Looking ahead
Despite the overall drop in homelessness, officials say more work is needed, especially as senior homelessness continues to rise.
"I also want to stress the obvious: there’s more work to do," Kohler said. "Too many people, for example, are living in their cars, and while we are moving closer toward eliminating family and veteran homelessness, we need more apartment owners and landlords willing to house people with assistance."
