By The Numbers: How San Diegans Gave in 2025

When times get tough, San Diegans step up to help those in need. Even amid economic uncertainty, locals donate their time and money to nonprofit organizations and independent foundations. These stats from the University of San Diego’s 2025 State of Nonprofits and Philanthropy Report highlight the thriving giving environment in San Diego.

The Big Picture

13,261

Nonprofits/registered 501(c)(3) public charities in 2023

9%

Growth in public charities between 2019 and 2023

39%

Growth in nonprofit assets between 2019 and 2023

952

Independent and family foundations

20%

Growth in foundation assets between 2019 and 2023

How San Diegans Gave Back

47%

Percent of households donated (Q2 2025)

40%

Percent of households volunteered (Q2 2024)

Top Causes San Diegans Donated To

40%

Food Banks/Pantries

32%

Animal-Related Zoos & Wildlife

25%

Religious Organizations

16%

Veteran Support

20%

Housing & Shelter

16%

Community Foundations

17%

Medical Research

19%

Arts & Culture

17%

Environment

16%

Youth Development

2024 Local Nonprofit Employment

24%

Of nonprofits have paid staff

110,728

Paid employees

$7.52

Billion total wages

9%

Of private employment in San Diego County

Public Confidence in Local Institutions

San Diegans rank nonprofits higher than other sectors for addressing community needs.

85%

Nonprofits

68%

Corporations

51%

Government

Source: 2025 State of Nonprofits and Philanthropy Report, University of San Diego