San Diego County Public RecordsCalifornia

As of 2023, San Diego County, CA, has an estimated population of 3.3 million. The median age is about 37 years, with 49.7% male and 50.3% female. Racial and ethnic composition is 44% White (non-Hispanic), 34% Hispanic or Latino, 12% Asian, 5% Black or African American, and 5% other or multiracial. The county’s population reflects diverse communities, making it one of the most vibrant regions in California.

San Diego County, CA, has over 1.9 million registered voters as of 2024, with Democrats (42%), Republicans (26%), No Party Preference (26%), and others (6%). It holds primary, general, local, and special elections. In 2022, voter turnout was about 54%. Polling locations include over 200 vote centers and hundreds of drop boxes. Key issues include housing, homelessness, and climate action. The Registrar of Voters administers elections, ensuring security and accessibility. Major political parties are Democratic, Republican, and independent groups, shaping election outcomes and policy directions in the county.

San Diego County, CA has over 650 public schools, including 135 high schools, and more than 35 colleges and universities. Approximately 38% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Public school average test scores hover around 60% proficiency in math and reading. The county offers robust adult education through institutions like SDCE, serving 40,000+ students annually. School safety initiatives are strong, with over 80% of schools reporting well-implemented safety plans. Programs include STEM, arts, and bilingual education, enhancing student achievement and engagement.

San Diego County, CA, had an unemployment rate of 4.1% as of April 2024. Major employment sectors include healthcare (14%), government (17%), and professional, scientific, & technical services (12%). The top occupation categories are office/administrative (13%), sales (9%), and food service (8%). About 75% of workers commute by car, while 4% use public transportation; the average commute time is 27 minutes. Major employment centers are downtown San Diego, Kearny Mesa, and Sorrento Valley, with significant job concentrations in technology, biotech, and tourism industries.

San Diego County, CA, has a homeownership rate of approximately 54%, with median home values around $880,000 as of early 2024. Median monthly rent is about $2,700. Property values have risen by roughly 7% year-over-year. Housing types range from coastal condos and suburban single-family homes to inland apartments. Popular neighborhoods include La Jolla, Carlsbad, and Chula Vista. Property tax rates average 1.1% of assessed value. Despite high costs, demand remains strong due to desirable climate and job market, making San Diego a competitive housing market for both buyers and renters.

San Diego County, CA, maintains one of the lowest crime rates among major U.S. urban counties. In 2023, the overall crime rate was 22.4 per 1,000 residents, with violent crimes (including homicide, rape, robbery, and assault) at 3.7 per 1,000. Property crime decreased to 18.7 per 1,000. Law enforcement agencies, including the San Diego County Sheriff's Department, report crime rates annually through the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program, supporting transparent public access and ongoing safety initiatives across the region.