San Jose Reports a Sharp Drop in Homelessness

City Hall released a new estimate this week that the unsheltered population fell about 32 percent in 18 months, from 5,477 people in February 2025 to 3,702 in August 2026. Mayor Matt Mahan tied the change to encampment cleanups, no-re-encampment zones, and a fast buildout of interim rooms: motels, tiny homes, and other emergency beds. ABC7 heard from some residents near Arena Green and the SAP Center who said they now see fewer people living outdoors, even as they added that the crisis has not left the city.

The numbers come from UrbanLogiq, a third-party model that folds in 15 data streams rather than waiting for the federal Point-in-Time count every two years. Those streams include outreach logs, police and fire calls, transportation counts of lived-in vehicles, and Homeless Management Information System records. Officials say the same model counted about 1,500 more unsheltered people than the January 2025 PIT figure of 3,959, which is why they treat the older snapshot as an undercount. The plan is to refresh the estimate every quarter so programs can shift instead of guessing for two years at a stretch.

Housing staff also pointed to capacity that did not exist a short while ago. Reports this week put newly created interim units around 1,000, while a September 15 council briefing described a wider portfolio of roughly 1,820 units and more than 2,200 beds across 22 sites. Lived-in vehicles tracked by the city fell from 960 in fall 2024 to 385 by spring 2026. Resident surveys moved in the same direction: the share of people who named homelessness as the single biggest thing San Jose should change dropped from a peak of 40 percent to 20 percent.

Skeptics asked whether the street feels that different. Advocate Shaunn Cartwright told ABC7 the 32 percent cut does not match what she sees day to day and noted that unhoused deaths last year hit 160, with 2026 on a similar pace. The Mercury News reported that Santa Clara County has not independently reviewed the UrbanLogiq model. The next official PIT count is not due until early 2027, so federal funders may still lean on the older method. City leaders themselves said the people still outside are often the hardest to reach, with addiction and mental health needs that interim beds alone will not settle.

A smaller outdoor population would matter for parks, storefronts, and the everyday walk through Downtown San Jose. It would also matter for the thousands who moved inside if those rooms stay funded and lead somewhere more permanent. The next quarterly run of the model will show whether the line keeps falling or levels off.

Source: ABC News

Boutique Grocery Heads to Ground Floor of San Pedro Square Housing Towers

An independent boutique grocery store is preparing to lease 12,000 square feet of ground-floor space at the two residential towers located at 188 West St. James Street in the San Pedro Square neighborhood of Downtown San Jose. The space faces San Pedro Square Market and sits within a complex that includes a 22-story eastern tower with 337 units and a 20-story western tower with 303 units.

The market will offer fresh food, sandwiches, a salad bar, a hot bar, burritos, and additional prepared items once the street-level shell is ready. Opening is projected for sometime in 2027. Leasing efforts are being handled by Nick Goddard of Colliers.

Downtown San Jose has long operated with limited grocery options. Whole Foods on The Alameda has served the western edge since 2014, and Sakura Market opened more recently on South Market Street. A new neighborhood-focused market at this central location will give residents of the towers and surrounding blocks easier access to everyday essentials and ready-to-eat meals.

The western tower continues to market condominiums for sale while the eastern tower remains under consideration for potential workforce housing by the San Jose Unified School District. Adding a practical retail anchor at street level should help activate the base of these buildings and support the daily needs of people living and working nearby.

Source: SiliconValley.com

San Jose Lands in the Top 10 Happiest Cities in America

San Jose ranked 10th among the 182 largest U.S. cities in WalletHub’s 2026 Happiest Cities in America report, earning an overall score of 67.79. The ranking evaluated 29 indicators across emotional and physical well-being, income and employment, and community and environment.

The city performed especially well in emotional and physical well-being, placing 7th in that category. It also recorded one of the nation’s lowest separation and divorce rates. Income and employment ranked 45th while community and environment came in at 42nd.

Fremont took the top national spot for the seventh consecutive year, followed by Bismarck, North Dakota, and Scottsdale, Arizona. Other California cities in the top tier included Irvine at 8th. San Francisco placed 17th.

These results highlight measurable strengths in health, life satisfaction, and social stability that contribute to daily quality of life for residents. The data provides one more data point in the ongoing conversation about what makes a city a good place to call home.

Source: WalletHub

San Jose Evolves Housing Policies to Unlock Fresh Neighborhood Possibilities

City leaders have adjusted the Inclusionary Housing Ordinance to breathe life into dormant projects. The update shifts affordability tiers for rental units from 50, 60, and 100 percent of area median income to 60, 80, and 110 percent, easing the path for developers to move forward. This pivot aims at households caught between subsidized options and soaring market rates, fostering a broader mix of homes that reflect the city's diverse rhythms and needs.

With Santa Clara County's median income hovering around $195,200 for the current fiscal year, these changes promise to make building viable again in a market slowed by financing hurdles. Developers now face lower thresholds for affordable units if they opt for deeper affordability levels, or they can choose in-lieu fees or offsite construction. Separate guidelines remain for for-sale properties, ensuring a balanced approach that could sprinkle new townhomes and apartments across neighborhoods.

Past rules, while well-intentioned, led to stalled progress with minimal affordable units emerging. By tweaking the framework, San Jose is experimenting with strategies to amplify supply, potentially slowing rents climb through sheer volume. Meanwhile, dedicated programs like the Gap Financing initiative keep the focus sharp on deeply affordable developments, weaving a safety net for lower-income residents amid the growth.

Source: SVBJ

New Retail Sparks in Downtown San Jose at 188 West St. James

There are some promising developments at the housing towers on 188 West St. James Street. These buildings have long featured empty ground-floor commercial spaces totaling around 32,000 square feet, but now brokers are actively seeking tenants to bring them to life. The location stands out for its proximity to San Pedro Square, a hub that draws steady foot traffic from locals and visitors alike. This setup positions the spaces perfectly to serve both residents above and the surrounding community.

Among the ideas gaining traction is a small grocery store modeled after a bodega, the kind of independently owned spot that offers everyday essentials with a personal touch. Such a store could fill much of the 20,000 square feet directly under the housing units, providing quick access to fresh goods without leaving the neighborhood. Other possibilities include a cheese, wine, and delicatessen establishment, which would cater to those seeking specialty items for gatherings or daily treats. The market potential here feels substantial, especially as Downtown grows with more people calling it home.

A two-story building next door along North San Pedro Street opens up even more options, like a restaurant to complement the nearby dining scene or a beauty salon and nail shop for self-care services. While challenges exist, such as the need for significant improvements to make the spaces ready, the overall vibe points toward positive change. These additions could enhance the walkable, community-focused feel that makes Downtown San Jose special, drawing more activity and fostering connections among neighbors.

Source: The Mercury News

San Jose Shines as America’s Safest Major City in 2025

San Jose has claimed the top spot as the safest major city in the United States, according to a 2025 SmartAsset study analyzing 50 of the nation’s largest cities. This ranking highlights the city’s exceptional performance across multiple safety metrics, making it a standout choice for residents, businesses, and visitors. From low crime rates to minimal traffic fatalities, San Jose’s commitment to safety enhances its appeal as a vibrant, thriving urban hub in the heart of Silicon Valley.

The study evaluated cities based on violent crime, property crime, vehicular deaths, drug overdose deaths, and excessive drinking. San Jose ranked among the top 10 in every category, showcasing a balanced approach to public safety. With only 5,185 violent crimes and 25,715 property crimes reported relative to its adult population, the city demonstrates a strong foundation for secure living. Additionally, San Jose recorded one of the lowest drug overdose death rates at 17 per 100,000 people, alongside low vehicular fatalities and moderate levels of excessive drinking.

This achievement sets San Jose apart from its neighbors, including San Francisco, which ranked 37th despite its proximity and economic ties. While San Francisco struggles with higher property crime and drug-related challenges, San Jose’s consistent safety metrics create an environment where families can thrive, businesses can prosper, and newcomers can feel confident in their choice to call this city home.

Source: smartasset

Misora Apartments Signal Continued Growth at Santana Row

Santana Row stands as a premier destination in San Jose, blending shopping, dining, and living spaces into a vibrant community hub. Federal Realty now plans to market the Misora apartment complex at 388 Santana Row, a 212-unit building completed in 2014 that spans about 222,000 square feet. This move follows the recent sale of the neighboring Levare apartments for $74 million to Hines in May, reflecting strong interest in high-quality residential properties within this sought-after area.

CEO Don Wood described such sales as a core part of the company's strategy, allowing reinvestment into mixed-use environments without affecting the retail and entertainment core. Misora, positioned across from Levare, offers modern living options that complement the lively atmosphere of Santana Row, where residents enjoy walkable access to boutiques, restaurants, and events. If priced similarly per unit to Levare, the complex could fetch upwards of $145 million, underscoring the value of San Jose's real estate market.

This transition opens doors for fresh ownership to enhance the property, potentially introducing new amenities or community features that build on Santana Row's appeal. As San Jose's west side continues to thrive, developments like this reinforce the area's role as a magnet for professionals, families, and visitors seeking a blend of urban convenience and leisure.

Source: SVBJ

New Condos Rising on West San Carlos: A Fresh Boost for San Jose Living

San Jose continues to evolve with innovative projects that enhance its urban fabric, and the latest proposal at 1470 West San Carlos Street stands out as a promising addition. This seven-story development aims to bring 180 condominiums to the corner of West San Carlos and Willard Avenue, replacing a vacant lot and an underutilized commercial building on a 0.85-acre site. Owned by affiliates linked to local business leaders Thahn Nguyen, Dylan Nguyen, and Margaret Pham, the project includes 1,700 square feet of ground-floor retail or office space, creating a mixed-use hub that supports both residents and nearby businesses.

The residential mix caters to diverse needs with 141 two-bedroom units, 21 one-bedroom units, and 18 three-bedroom units, all designed in a donut-shaped building that centers outdoor open space for residents. This layout shields the communal area from street noise and traffic while keeping it accessible, fostering a sense of community in a bustling corridor. Developers from WSC Development emphasize how this setup aligns with the West San Carlos Urban Village Plan, turning an overlooked parcel into vital housing that encourages walking or biking to Downtown San Jose for work and daily activities.

What makes this project particularly noteworthy is its focus on for-sale condos, a rarity in the West San Carlos area where rental developments often dominate. Real estate experts like Bob Staedler from Silicon Valley Synergy highlight the corridor's potential for substantial housing growth in the coming years. By pursuing a streamlined approval process under California's SB 330 law, the team aims to deliver a standout building that draws new residents and invigorates local commerce, contributing to San Jose's vibrant future.

Source: SiliconValley.com 

Sobrato Planning Downtown San Jose Residential High-rise!

Another week, another tower! The latest proposal for Downtown San Jose is a 23-story apartment building with 399 units. This tower would be built right between The 88 and the building formerly known as The Rep.

The Sobrato Organization went with a preliminary design by Arquitectonica, a Miami firm known for some radical buildings. This rendering looks a bit subdued compared to other work the design company has done, but it would still be one of the nicest looking buildings in Downtown San Jose. I do really like what they have done with the balconies.

Sobrato purchased the land in 2010 and has sat on the property until today. There is still some risk involved that the project will get pushed back until the next economic cycle, but the Sobrato Organization is optimistic it can be built in the near term and they want something that they can be proud of for the building's 100+ year lifespan.

In addition to the apartments, there will spaces on the ground floor for restaurants and shops. The building will have two amenity decks, one on the 5th floor and another with a view up on the 17th floor. It will take a few months to get city approvals, but there is no ETA given for breaking ground. I have a feeling the best case scenario will be somewhere in 2017. It's amazing how much Downtown is going to change over the next few years!

Source: SVBJ

Axis Howl-O-Ween Event

If you have ever wondered what it would be like to live with a pet in Downtown San Jose, this may be the event for you. You will be able to tour the Axis residential high-rise with man's best friend, learn which services such as dog walking and training are available locally, and then explore Downtown with your companion. There's even a Doggie costume contest. To participate, just head over to 38 N. Almaden Boulevard on Saturday, October 27th between 11am and 1pm. More details below.

360 Residences Open House

The 360 Residences are starting to promote their new apartments!  If you're interested in a tour and some free cocktails, RSVP to 360residences@fpimgt.com by tomorrow.

AXIS Promo

With the upcoming San Pedro Square Market, Little Italy, and several new restaurants... it looks like AXIS residents have a lot to look forward to over the next few months. Have a look below at the latest AXIS promo from WMS Media:

The 88 Promo Video

In honor of The 88 snagging Downtown Condo Owner #1500, I thought I'd share a promo I found that highlights the benefits of living downtown using stories from actual residents there:

1500th Person to Call the Heart of Downtown San Jose Home!

Last Thursday Downtown San Jose achieved a major milestone in its history. Sarah Ligda became the 1500th person to clutch the keys of a brand new Downtown San Jose condo! If you've been to downtown lately, you've probably noticed that there are a few more lights on when you look up at the sky and a few more feet on the streets. Despite a rocky economy the heart of our city continues to grow in every way possible: density, eclecticism, and culture. It's becoming a place were people want to live, work, play, and just be. Every key that gets passed on to new condo owners chisels away at the stereotypes and misconceptions Downtown has dealt with for decades and paves the way for a much brighter future.

Now, it is with tremendous pleasure that The San Jose Blog gets to bring you the following press release before anyone else. Enjoy!

***

SAN JOSE (March 4, 2010) Sarah Ligda, a recent San Jose State University masters-degree graduate now working in high-technology in Silicon Valley, was heralded today as the 1500th new downtown resident of San Jose’s two-year surge of condominiums. A resident of The 88 highrise at 88 E. San Fernando, Sarah joins the growing population of singles, couples and families who are finding greater appeal in urban life than the previous generation, a lifestyle also seen as a path toward greater sustainability for the planet, according to officials who gathered downtown to mark the occasion.

Nearly two-dozen new downtown retailers were also feted, including 12 that have opened in 2009 and 11 more planned to open in 2010.

San Jose City Council Member Sam Liccardo, San Jose Downtown Association Executive Director Scott Knies and The 88’s Seth Bland of developer Wilson Meany Sullivan were among the officials presenting a basket of downtown retailer gifts to Sarah.

The 1500th resident marks the move-in of over 850 new buyers, plus a multiplier for household size, in nearly 20 downtown properties since late 2007 when the first highrise, City Heights, welcomed new residents, according to research by Pacific Marketing Associates.

“Sarah’s move to downtown is emblematic of our emerging Downtown populace,” said Liccardo. “She’s a young, well-educated, tech worker seeking an urban environment where she needs to walk no more than a block to encounter a yoga studio, Brazilian restaurant, grocery store, a live theater, and a comedy club. It’s all here.”

“Day by day, we’re seeing small but significant forward-steps downtown, and the addition of 1500 new residents plus our new retailers is part of that story,” said Knies. “The new downtown condominium buildings are bringing more vibrance and activity compared to a year or two ago, and you can see the incremental change every afternoon and evening on the sidewalks and in the restaurants.”

The new downtown retailers of 2009-10 include:

-- Newly-opened in the past year::
The Market by Safeway, E. San Fernando at 2nd
Maceio’s Brazilian Restaurant - 72 S. First St.
Soula Power Yoga Studio - 200 S. First Street
Icebee Yogurt - 151 S. Second St
Silk Road Mediterranean Café - 185 Park Ave
San Jose Glass Artist Alliance – 465 S. First St.
The Heel Bar – shoe repair, service for residents – 134 E Santa Clara St
Love’s Cupcakes - 85 E. San Fernando St.
WOW Noodle Bar - 76 S. First St.
The Old Wagon Saloon & Grill - 73 N. San Pedro St.
Downtown Yoga Shala 450 S. First St.
The Cheesesteak Shop - 76 E. Santa Clara St.

-- Retailer planned in First Quarter 2010
The MMoon Empanada Restaurant - 177 W. Santa Clara St [cq: MMoon with 2 M's)
The Pasta Market - Market Center on Coleman
Pho 69 - 321 S. First St
U-Food Grill - 143 W Santa Clara St
Tangerine Hookah Lounge - Fountain Alley
Morton’s The Steakhouse – expansion (177 Park Ave.)
La Victoria – expansion - 131 W. Santa Clara St.

-- Planned later 2010:
Market at San Pedro Square – open August 2010
Flames Eatery - 88 S 4th St - expansion to add bakery and extra seating - December 2010
Higher Fire Ceramics Gallery & Studio – 495 S Market – Summer 2010
Ross Dress for Less – 27 S First St –June 2010

From the left: Seth Bland of The 88; Scott Knies from the SJDA; Nancy Avila from Maceio’s Brazilian Steakhouse; Sarah Ligda, the ceremonial 1500th new downtown condo resident; Sam Liccardo, City Council Member; Kimberly Beach, store manager of The Market by Safeway; and (Mr.) Meredith Davis, a teacher at Soula Power Yoga.

Excellent Ad Campaign For Downtown San Jose

I stumbled upon this phenomenal ad campaign promoting downtown living at the SJDA site. I was so impressed that I had to share. Click the images to enlarge and read the text.