San Diego County reports 7% drop in homelessness for 2025

In a recent meeting of the Standing Committee on Homelessness in Vista, city officials gathered to discuss pressing issues surrounding homelessness in the region. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency as members reviewed the latest data from the 2025 Point in Time Count, which revealed a promising 6.5% decrease in homelessness across San Diego County compared to the previous year.

Jonathan Long, the Homeless Services Program Manager, presented the findings, highlighting that the total number of individuals experiencing homelessness in the county had dropped from 10,605 in 2024 to 9,905 in 2025. This decline included reductions in various categories, such as veterans, families, and youth, indicating a potential improvement in the effectiveness of shelter resources.

However, the discussion quickly turned to the complexities of data representation. Mayor of Vista raised concerns about the inclusion of unincorporated areas in the city’s homelessness statistics. He emphasized the need for clarity in the Point in Time Count, suggesting that areas like Bonzo should not be counted against Vista’s efforts, as the city is actively working to implement new programs and secure grants to combat homelessness.

The mayor's proposal to send a letter to the Regional Task Force on Homelessness (RTFH) aimed to delineate these unincorporated areas from Vista’s count, arguing that accurate data is crucial for assessing the city’s performance and improving its strategies. The committee members echoed his sentiments, expressing surprise that the current mapping allowed for such discrepancies.

As the meeting progressed, the conversation underscored the importance of understanding how census tracts intersect with city boundaries, which can complicate the interpretation of homelessness data. The committee members sought further insights into how these areas were counted, emphasizing the need for precise information to guide future initiatives.

The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism, bolstered by the positive trends in homelessness statistics, yet tempered by the recognition of the challenges that remain. As Vista continues to navigate its role in addressing homelessness, the discussions highlighted the critical need for accurate data and collaboration with regional partners to ensure effective solutions for all residents.