San Diego Voters Will Decide Whether to Tax Vacant Homes

More than 5,100 homes sit empty across San Diego while renters and buyers scramble for anything they can afford—but a measure on the June ballot would start charging absentee owners for that vacancy.

San Diego voters are set to weigh in on Measure A, with supporters saying more than 5,100 properties sit idle, held by corporations, out-of-state investors, and absentee owners, driving up rents and prices for everyone else.

Who actually pays—and who doesn't

The measure is structured to leave nearly everyone untouched. Primary residences are fully exempt. So are long-term rentals. Hardship protections cover military deployment, the death of an owner, and medical emergencies.

Backers say 99% of San Diego residents would owe nothing—the tax falls on properties sitting empty without an exemption.

Where the money would go

Supporters say the measure would "return vacant homes to the market, increasing supply and relieving pressure on rents and home prices," while generating "millions annually for affordable housing, homelessness prevention, and essential city services."

Independent financial audits and public transparency requirements would be built into the measure, according to the city's official argument in favor.

The coalition backing Measure A includes San Diego firefighters, lifeguards, teachers, labor unions, and civil rights and fair housing organizations.

The source material available represents only the pro side—no organized opposition argument was included. Voters should review both sides before heading to the polls.

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