San Diego County has released its $9.16 billion adopted budget for fiscal year 2026-27, a $522 million — or 6.1 percent — increase over the previous year's spending plan.

The budget, which took effect July 1, includes 20,389.25 staff years, a net increase of 109 positions. The County Board of Supervisors adopted the revised recommended budget on June 25 after incorporating board feedback and public input from surveys, open houses, and an 11-day public comment period.

County officials said the plan expands critical safety-net services, strengthens behavioral health and public health programs, and invests in public safety, fire protection, roads, parks, and community spaces. The budget maintains what the County describes as healthy reserves and disciplined financial planning.

"The balanced spending plan maintains core services, responds to rising community needs, and supports long-term fiscal stability amid uncertainties at the state and federal levels," according to the County.

County programs serve nearly all of the region's 3.3 million residents across unincorporated areas, 18 incorporated cities, and 18 federally recognized tribes. In unincorporated areas, the County provides municipal services including law enforcement, roads, building permits, animal services, parks, and libraries. Several cities also contract with the County for these services.

Regionwide, the County oversees emergency preparedness, criminal prosecution and detention, food and financial assistance programs, behavioral health services, public health, restaurant inspections, elections, and beach water monitoring.