In today’s rapidly evolving world, data-driven decision-making is paramount, especially when it comes to economic development and fostering inclusive growth. In San Diego, an innovative tool has emerged to facilitate just that—the San Diego Investment Map.
Developed by Park & Market resident partner San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation (EDC), the San Diego Investment Map is a game-changer for businesses, investors, and policymakers alike, helping to promote economic equity and sustainable development in the region.
The map, part of EDC’s Inclusive Growth Initiative, is a dynamic online platform that offers comprehensive data and insights into San Diego’s economy, business landscape, and investment opportunities. The map compiles a wealth of information—including real estate data, workforce statistics, industry trends, and demographic information—making it a one-stop resource for anyone interested in understanding the region’s economic landscape.
San Diego Regional EDC Senior Research Manager Teddy Martinez says the Investment Map is a tool for local policymakers, developers, and employers to make informed decisions to prioritize the region’s inclusive growth. “Using geographic storytelling, the map makes obvious the gaps in our economy—limited childcare; disjointed development both in terms of location and income level; rising costs with no end in sight,” Martinez shared. “Data-driven solutions to alleviate these challenges will safeguard San Diego’s competitiveness.”
San Diego Regional EDC shared three key takeaways from the Investment Map:
- CHILDCARE: San Diego has 327 childcare ‘deserts’ spread throughout the region, making up nearly half of all census tracts. The Investment Map can pinpoint gaps in childcare supply and help narrow sites for prioritization.
- HOUSING: Seventy-four percent of San Diego’s population is middle- to low-income, yet only 2.5 percent of permitted housing development needed in the region accommodates these groups. The Investment Map can identify zones with existing building incentives, community plan updates, as well as new commercial development where workforce housing may be needed.
- INDUSTRY: There are 15.6 million rentable square feet of commercial space being developed across the region, predominately concentrated in northern San Diego. While this includes enough office space for more than 42,000 employees, most workers live instead in the southern and eastern parts of the region. The Investment Map can assist companies in site selection based on occupation hubs, commute trends, and other infrastructure assets that meet their operational needs.
The San Diego Investment Map is more than just a tool; it catalyzes positive change in the San Diego region. By providing access to comprehensive data and insights, it empowers businesses, investors, and policymakers to make informed decisions that promote equity and growth. As this innovative platform continues to evolve and expand, it is a shining example of how data-driven strategies can drive prosperity and opportunity for all in a dynamic and diverse community like San Diego.
“Inclusion is an economic and business imperative. It’s more than diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace—it’s about ensuring all San Diegans have the resources and infrastructure needed to thrive in this region. The Investment Map highlights all the work we still have to do to make that possible,” said Lisette Islas, EDC vice chair of Inclusive Growth, and EVP and Chief Impact Officer of MAAC.
For more information on the San Diego Investment Map and San Diego Regional EDC, visit the organization’s headquarters at UC San Diego Park & Market or find them online at www.sandiegobusiness.org. You can also find San Diego Regional EDC on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X/Twitter.