By the Numbers: What San Diegans Donated in 2024

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

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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

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44%

Percentage of households that donated (Q2 2024)

41%

Percentage of households that volunteered (Q2 2024)

Top Causes San Diegans Donated To

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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

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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