Annual homelessness report by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

U.S. Homelessness Surges 18.1% in 2024, Over 770,000 Counted Homeless, Including 150,000 Children

Dec 27, 2024, 05:20 PM

The United States has experienced an 18.1% increase in homelessness in 2024, with over 770,000 individuals counted as homeless, according to federal data from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This rise is attributed primarily to a lack of affordable housing, exacerbated by natural disasters and a surge in migration. Notably, the number of homeless children reached approximately 150,000, reflecting a 33% increase from the previous year. The report highlights a nearly 40% rise in family homelessness, indicating a concerning trend in housing instability. Major urban areas, including New York and Chicago, have seen pronounced increases in homelessness, with New York alone accounting for a 55,000 rise in homeless individuals compared to the previous year. The findings underscore the ongoing challenges in addressing the homelessness crisis amid rising housing costs and insufficient affordable housing options.