5 US Cities With Largest Homeless Populations

In this article, we will take a look at the 5 US cities with largest homeless populations. If you would like to read our discussion on the trends and statistics in homelessness, you can go to the 25 US Cities With Largest Homeless Populations.

5. Denver, Colorado

Homeless Population: 10,054 

A study conducted in the metro Denver area identified various factors contributing to homelessness, including relationship problems, family breakdowns, financial difficulties such as inability to pay rent or mortgage, and unemployment. The study emphasized that homelessness stems from systemic issues rather than individual shortcomings. With a homeless population of 10,054 individuals, Denver is one of the US cities with largest homeless populations.

4. San Diego, California

Homeless Population: 10,264

According to the most recent data, homelessness in San Diego County has increased by 14% compared to the previous year. Out of the total homeless population in the city, 5,171 individuals are unsheltered, while others have access to shelters. Additionally, recent statistics indicate that for every 10 people who secure housing in San Diego, 16 individuals experience homelessness.

3. Seattle, Washington

Homeless Population: 14,149

Homelessness remains a challenging problem in Seattle. Factors such as expensive housing, a lack of affordable options, and the conclusion of pandemic-related aid programs worsen the situation. In response, the Seattle Unified Care Team, established in 2022, plans to deploy five neighborhood teams to improve the implementation of strategies to prevent homelessness. Through these efforts and additional resources, Seattle aims to make progress in reducing homelessness.

2. Los Angeles, California

Homeless Population: 71,320

The 2023 Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count revealed a yearly 10% increase in homelessness within the city. The rise in homelessness is particularly pronounced in Los Angeles’ Westside and Harbor neighborhoods, where the homeless population has grown by over 2,000 individuals over the last year, representing an increase of nearly 45%. This increase in homelessness is primarily attributed to a 14% rise in the number of unsheltered individuals compared to the previous year.

1. New York City, New York

Homeless Population: 88,025

The number of people residing in New York City’s homeless shelters is continuously rising. In October 2023, approximately 146,000 individuals slept in municipal shelters, representing a 144% increase from January 2022. Thousands of recently arrived immigrants are now residing in shelters other than those run by the Department of Homeless Services (DHS). Prior to the inflow of immigration, single adults comprised the largest individual category in DHS facilities.