Escondido sees 12% drop in unsheltered homelessness in 2026 count

The 2026 Point-in-Time count released by the Regional Task Force on Homelessness recorded 271 unsheltered individuals in Escondido, a 12 percent decline from the 307 reported in 2025. City officials attribute the decrease to stricter enforcement of the encampment ordinance, expanded outreach, and regular cleaning of the Escondido Creek Trail. Mayor Dane White highlighted the strengthened partnership with Interfaith Community Services, which in the prior year helped 682 people access treatment, detox beds and the TURK recuperative care center.

Local business owner Jane Bohan noted fewer encampments near her shop and expressed optimism that the trend will continue. While the city’s reduction outperforms the San Diego County average 11 percent decline, officials say rising senior homelessness remains a concern that will need targeted attention.