There’s nothing better than finding that perfect home accent or a stunning outfit. But with the economy the way it is today, who can afford retail therapy anymore? You can when you shop at the best thrift stores in San Diego. Thrift stores are way cheaper than full-on retail. They’re also a way to help the environment because you’re repurposing items instead of them winding up in landfills or dirtying up our planet. Plus, you can find the most bizarre and unusual items at thrift stores - stuff you might never find anywhere else! With all the pros and virtually no cons, it’s time to grab your shopping totes and check out these 6 best thrift stores in San Diego.
Goodwill
Since 1902, Goodwill has been giving back to communities throughout the U.S. The first Goodwill store was opened in 1965 in Florida. Today, there are hundreds of locations, with around 30 Goodwill stores in San Diego County. From furniture to clothing, glassware to books, sporting goods to brick-a-brack - there’s no telling what you’ll find at your local SD Goodwill store. Say you don’t have the time to shop at a brick-and-mortar store? No problem! Goodwill now has online thrift store services, so you don’t even have to leave the house for your shopping therapy!
AMVETS
Give back to our veterans (and save a load of dough) by shopping at one of two AMVET store locations in San Diego. Both locations have a slew of items you’re not likely to find anywhere else. Whether you need an exotic accessory for a Halloween costume or a baby bassinet, AMVET is a tried-and-true solution. Even better, you can shop with pride knowing your purchase proceeds go to support American veterans.
Salvation Army Store
With around a dozen stores in San Diego County and a 40-year history in the area, Salvation Army stores have become a staple for frugal shoppers. In addition, proceeds from your purchases go to life-affirming programs to help people find jobs, rehabilitate their lives, and improve communities. Salvation Army stores offer as much diversity in items as the aforementioned thrift stores in San Diego, but you don’t know what you’ll find until you visit your local store for yourself. And remember - you don’t have to buy - you can always donate items at their drop-off locations.
Father Joe's Villages Thrift Store
Father Joe’s has five locations in SD County, and each store is stuffed to the gills with unique items—some of which you never knew you needed until you saw them on display. Each location also has a drop-off option, so even if you’re not in the mood to shop, you can donate to their worthy causes. They even have a pickup service if you have items you’d like to donate but don’t have the time to go to their drop-off stations. Proceeds from Father Joe’s stores go to much-needed community services such as children’s programs and efforts to help the homeless.
Rock Thrift Store
Located on Camino Del Rio West Street, Rock Thrift Store has been serving the community since 2010. This faith-based organization uses proceeds of purchases to help crucial services such as the American Red Cross and local fire and police departments. Rated as one of the best thrift stores in San Diego, Rock has an eclectic mix of one-of-a-kind items. From fishing gear to retro shoes, jewelry to handbags - you’re bound to find something perfect for your home or outfit at Rock.
Darrell's Modern Trends Thrift Store
This is a bit different from the other stores we’ve mentioned in that they also provide surplus and overstock items in addition to second-hand items. The word “modern” in the name is a key insight, because the store has a clean, slick, unencumbered feel to it. In fact, many locals say it’s one of the best places to shop in San Diego for great deals. Darrell’s specializes in vintage clothing, antique furniture, and other uncommon needful things. They pride themselves on spectacular customer service, and they even offer free furniture delivery (within a reasonable distance).
San Diego Thrift Stores: Your One–Stop-Shops for Giving Back and Getting More
Hopefully, after reading this, we’ve properly motivated you to explore the ample selection provided by these best thrift stores in San Diego County. Shopping at any of these second-hand locations is a win-win scenario because your money goes to worthy causes, and you can find some of the most amazing items under the sun. So what are you waiting for? Grab your reusable bags and go on a thrift store shopping spree!
