U.S. Homelessness Rate Rises By Record 18%

The U.S. experienced a record 18% increase in homelessness in 2024, driven by factors such as unaffordable housing, inflation, systemic racism, natural disasters, and immigration, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) reported, Kanishka Singh reported for Reuters.

Homelessness has become a growing crisis across the U.S., with makeshift encampments and tents visible in many urban areas.

Data released recently showed that 771,480 people—about 23 per 10,000 U.S. residents—experienced homelessness in emergency shelters, safe havens, transitional housing programs, or unsheltered locations.

This marks a significant rise compared to the 12% increase reported in 2023.

Homelessness has become a growing crisis across the U.S., with makeshift encampments and tents visible in many urban areas. Federal and state governments have proposed varying strategies to address the issue, but comprehensive solutions remain elusive.