San Diegans are growing increasingly alarmed about the effects of inflation, global war, rising costs of living, a potentially looming recession, and the added pressure this puts on nonprofits. But despite uncertain times, locals continue to donate their time and money to those in need, highlighting the thriving giving environment in San Diego.
The Big Picture
13,172
Number of nonprofits (registered 501(c)(3) charities) in San Diego in 2022
$28.1B
Total combined revenue of all nonprofits
$47.6B
Total combined assets of all nonprofits
106,178
Total number of San Diego nonprofit employees in 2023
$7B
Total combined wages earned by nonprofit employees
How San Diegans Gave Back
44%
Percentage of households that donated (Q2 2024)
41%
Percentage of households that volunteered (Q2 2024)
Top Causes San Diegans Donated To
38%
Food Banks/Pantries
29%
Animal-Related Zoos & Wildlife
29%
Religious Organizations
21%
Veteran Support
16%
Housing & Shelter
15%
Health Clinics & Hospitals
14%
Medical Research
13%
Arts & Culture
12%
Environment
12%
Neighborhood Associations
Public Confidence
San Diegans rank nonprofits higher than other sectors for addressing community needs:
81%
Nonprofits
67%
Corporations
56%
Government
Source: 2024 State Of Nonprofits And Philanthropy Report, University Of San Diego
