Jan 26, 2026 - Politics
Where San Diego's money goes
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San Diego's police, fire-rescue and parks & recreation departments make up the majority of the city's budget, according to independent budget analyst Charles Modica.
By the numbers: Police made up 32% of the general fund in 2025, followed by fire-rescue (17%), and parks & recreation (9%).
Follow the money: The city's biggest expenditure last year was the pension fund ($378 million from the General Fund).
- Water was the second largest expense at $294 million, but that's paid for by water rates, not the General Fund.