Homelessness in the U.S. Surges by Record 18%, HUD Reports

Homelessness in the United States has risen by an unprecedented 18% between 2023 and 2024, according to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This sharp increase marks the largest annual spike since HUD began collecting data in 2007, bringing the total number of unhoused individuals to approximately 771,480, or about 23 per 10,000 people nationwide.

The surge highlights the deepening housing affordability crisis and economic pressures affecting millions of Americans. Soaring rents and limited low-income housing options remain the primary drivers of homelessness. Economic challenges, including persistent inflation and rising costs of living, have further strained household budgets, forcing many into precarious living conditions.

HUD Secretary Marcia Fudge acknowledged the crisis, pointing to the expiration of COVID-19 prevention programs as a contributing factor. Many emergency measures implemented during the pandemic, such as eviction moratoriums and rental assistance, were phased out in 2023, leaving vulnerable populations with limited safety nets.

Demographic data underscores the severity of the crisis. Homelessness among children under 18 increased by 33%, while family homelessness surged by 40%. Black Americans remain disproportionately affected, making up 32% of the homeless population despite representing only 12% of the U.S. population. Additionally, natural disasters such as wildfires and hurricanes, coupled with increased migration pressures, have exacerbated the situation.

Despite the grim statistics, there were some positive developments. Homelessness among veterans decreased by 8%, falling to a record low of 32,882 individuals. This decline is attributed to targeted federal programs aimed at providing housing and support for veterans.

Advocacy groups and experts have called for immediate and coordinated action to address the crisis. "The rise in homelessness is a stark reminder of the systemic failures in providing affordable housing and economic security," said Diane Yentel, CEO of the National Low Income Housing Coalition. She emphasized the need for increased federal investment in affordable housing and social services to prevent further escalation.

The rise in homelessness poses significant challenges for local governments and nonprofit organizations that provide shelter and support services. Many shelters are operating at full capacity, struggling to meet the growing demand. Advocates warn that without substantial intervention, the crisis could worsen, leaving more individuals and families without stable housing.

The Biden administration has pledged to tackle homelessness through its "All In" strategy, which aims to reduce homelessness by 25% by 2025. However, critics argue that current efforts fall short of addressing the scale of the problem. They urge policymakers to adopt more comprehensive solutions, including rent control measures, expanded housing vouchers, and increased funding for affordable housing development.

The unprecedented rise in homelessness underscores the urgent need for systemic reforms. As the nation grapples with this growing crisis, advocates stress that addressing the root causes—housing affordability, economic inequality, and systemic disparities—must be a top priority for federal, state, and local governments.