Homelessness in the U.S. rose by 18.1% in 2024, with over 770,000 people affected, according to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This sharp increase, following a 12% rise in 2023, stems largely from the lack of affordable housing, natural disasters like Maui’s wildfire, and the influx of migrants in major cities. Family homelessness surged nearly 40%, doubling in cities such as New York and Chicago, while children experiencing homelessness rose 33%, totaling nearly 150,000.
Homelessness among veterans declined by 8% due to targeted initiatives, offering a roadmap for broader solutions. Cities like Dallas and Los Angeles reported localized decreases in homelessness due to housing reforms. However, states like California and New York continue to see the largest homeless populations.
Advocates like Renee Willis of the National Low Income Housing Coalition stress the need for increased investment in affordable housing to reverse the trend. Meanwhile, many communities are enforcing stricter bans on public camping, despite criticism from homeless advocates. Federal aid during the COVID-19 pandemic had previously stabilized homelessness rates, highlighting the impact of strong policy and funding.
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