Goodwill Retail Store and Donation Center

The Goodwill Retail Store and Donation Center on University Avenue in San Diego stands as one of the community's most valued thrift shopping destinations. This spacious location offers an organized, clean environment where treasure hunters and bargain seekers can browse through a constantly refreshed inventory of pre-loved items. What sets this Goodwill apart is its commitment to quality control – each item is carefully inspected before hitting the sales floor, ensuring shoppers get genuine value with every purchase. Beyond being just a store, this Hillcrest Goodwill serves as a vital community resource. Every purchase supports Goodwill San Diego's mission of providing job training and employment opportunities to individuals facing barriers to employment. Local residents appreciate not just the affordable finds but also knowing their shopping dollars are making a direct positive impact in the San Diego community.

Store Information

1219 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103

Phone: +1 619-795-6630

Website: https://www.sdgoodwill.org/

4.3★ average across 396 reviews on Google

Store Hours

  • Monday: 9AM-8PM
  • Tuesday: 9AM-8PM
  • Wednesday: 9AM-8PM
  • Thursday: 9AM-8PM
  • Friday: 9AM-8PM
  • Saturday: 9AM-8PM
  • Sunday: 9AM-7PM

What They Sell

The Goodwill on University Avenue offers an expansive selection of gently-used clothing for men, women, and children, including seasonal wear, professional attire, and everyday basics at a fraction of retail prices. Home goods enthusiasts will discover furniture, kitchenware, decor, and electronics that change daily. Book lovers can browse shelves of literature, while collectors might uncover vintage items, unique artwork, or specialty goods. With San Diego's affluent surrounding neighborhoods contributing donations, shoppers often find high-quality brands and occasionally designer items among the carefully curated merchandise.

The Neighborhood

Located in the vibrant Hillcrest neighborhood of San Diego, California, this Goodwill sits on bustling University Avenue, a main artery of one of the city's most eclectic districts. Surrounded by trendy restaurants, coffee shops, and local boutiques, the store benefits from its proximity to both upscale neighborhoods and diverse communities. Just minutes from Balboa Park and accessible from the 163 freeway, this central location makes it convenient for donors and shoppers from throughout San Diego County.

Parking

The Goodwill on University Avenue offers a dedicated parking lot for customers, though it can fill quickly during peak weekend hours. Additional street parking is available along University Avenue and side streets in the Hillcrest neighborhood, with most spots offering 1-2 hour limits. For longer shopping trips, consider the nearby public parking structures that service the Hillcrest business district, just a short walk from the store.

Shopping Tips

  • Sign up for a Goodwill rewards card at checkout to earn points toward future discounts and be notified of special sale days unique to San Diego locations.
  • Color tags indicate weekly discount promotions, with specific colors offering 50% off on rotating schedules.
  • The best high-end donations typically appear mid-week when many San Diego residents do their spring cleaning and home organization.
  • Bring your own reusable shopping bags to easily carry your treasures and support Goodwill's environmental initiatives.
  • Check the Goodwill San Diego website or social media accounts before visiting for announcements about special event sales and holiday promotions.

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