Education is the foundation for building a better future for ourselves and contributes to improving overall quality of life in our communities. The positive association between health and education has been well established. Education has a beneficial influence on a variety of economic, social and psychological factors which impact the health and well-being of a population.

High educational attainment is associated with the following.

• Lower rates of infectious disease as well as lower rates of many chronic noninfectious diseases
• Greater survival when sick, and longer life expectancy
• Higher rate of employment

View research, best practices, and examples of the collective impact logic model related to Education.

Call to Action: What We Can Do to Improve Education?

San Diego County is home to a diverse range of initiatives and partnerships that support learning at every stage of life. Across the region, schools, community organizations, and local leaders are collaborating to ensure that all residents have equitable access to quality education and opportunities for success.

Various programs focus on building academic readiness, strengthening career pathways, and inspiring lifelong curiosity through hands-on learning in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. 

Mentorship programs and after-school initiatives help students develop skills, confidence, and connections that prepare them for higher education and meaningful careers.

By fostering collaboration between schools, families, businesses, and community partners, San Diego County continues to expand access to educational resources, promote student achievement, and create pathways to a brighter and more resilient future for all learners.

Less than a H.S. Diploma

In 2023, 11.0% of the aged 25+ population had less than a high school diploma or equivalent.

Definition: Percent of the population 25 and older, with less than a high school diploma or equivalent.

Data Source(s)

• Data year: 2023. Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2019-2023 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table DP02.

Bachelor's Degree

In 2023, 25.6% of the aged 25+ population had a bachelor's degree.

Definition: Percent of the population 25 and older, with a Bachelor's degree.

Data Source(s)

• Data year: Data year: 2023. Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2019-2023 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table DP02.

Graduate or Professional Degree

In 2023, 16.5% of the aged 25+ population had a graduate or professional degree.

Definition: Percent of the population 25 and older, with a graduate or professional degree.

Data Source(s)

• Data year: 2023. Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2019-2023 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table DP02.

School Enrollment

In 2023, 76.5% of the aged 3 through 24 year old population had enrolled in school.

Definition: Percent combined gross enrollment (enrollment in primary, secondary, and tertiary school regardless of age) out of all who are of school age (ages 3 through 24 years).

Data Source(s)

• Data year: 2023. Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2019-2023 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table S1401.

The reports below show the trend in Education-related expanded indicators over time in San Diego County. Tracking these expanded indicators across multiple years helps us understand long-term patterns and progress toward improving population health.