Homelessness remains a growing crisis in the United States, affecting hundreds of thousands of people across the country. According to the latest data from USAFacts.org, approximately 771,480 individuals were experiencing homelessness in January 2024. While homelessness exists in every state, it is far more concentrated in certain cities.
This article ranks the U.S. cities with the highest homeless populations based on USAFacts.org’s released rankings based on Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) data. The rankings consider major urban areas, suburban regions, and smaller communities where homelessness remains a pressing issue. With over half of the nation’s homeless population concentrated in the country’s 50 largest cities, these numbers offer a stark look at the places most affected by this crisis.
20. Fresno City, CA
Fresno and Madera County report 4,305 homeless individuals, many of whom struggle to find work and stable housing. Local efforts focus on expanding shelter access and permanent housing options.
19. Honolulu City, HI
Honolulu has 4,497 homeless individuals, many living in makeshift camps near beaches. The high cost of living and lack of affordable housing make finding stability difficult.
18. Stockton, CA
Stockton and San Joaquin County have 4,732 homeless individuals, as economic struggles continue to impact the area. Local authorities have launched new programs, but demand outweighs resources.
17. Philadelphia, PA
With 5,191 homeless individuals, Philadelphia struggles with rising housing costs and addiction-related homelessness. Outreach teams work to connect people with resources, but the problem persists.
16. District of Columbia, DC
Washington, D.C. has 5,616 people experiencing homelessness, with many seeking refuge in government-funded shelters. Affordable housing remains scarce despite ongoing efforts.
15. Boston, MA
Boston’s 5,898 homeless residents battle extreme winter conditions, making shelter access a critical concern. The city continues to prioritize housing programs but faces ongoing challenges.
14. Sacramento City, CA
In Sacramento, 6,615 people are homeless, often camping near the river and public parks. The city is working on long-term solutions but faces opposition to large-scale shelters.
13. Santa Ana, Anaheim, CA
Orange County, including Santa Ana and Anaheim, has 7,322 homeless individuals, many of whom struggle to find affordable housing. While some efforts have been made, the demand for shelter outpaces availability.
12. Portland, OR
Portland and surrounding areas have 7,384 homeless individuals, with visible encampments across the city. The local government continues to explore solutions, including sanctioned tent sites and expanded shelters.
11. Las Vegas, NV
In Las Vegas, 7,906 people are without a home, with many living in tunnels and makeshift shelters. The city has been increasing outreach efforts, but the problem persists.
10. San Francisco, CA
With 8,323 people experiencing homelessness, San Francisco faces an ongoing struggle despite significant spending on services. High rents and a lack of affordable housing continue to drive the crisis.
9. Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix and Maricopa County report 9,435 homeless individuals, worsened by extreme summer heat. The lack of shelter beds remains a critical issue in the region.
8. Oakland, Berkeley, CA
Alameda County, including Oakland and Berkeley, has 9,450 homeless individuals, with visible encampments growing near freeways and parks. The region has invested in tiny home villages and other temporary solutions.
7. San Jose/Santa Clara, CA
In Silicon Valley, where wealth and poverty collide, 10,394 people are without housing. Despite high-tech industry success, affordable living remains out of reach for many.
6. San Diego, CA
More than 10,605 people in San Diego lack stable housing, with many forced to sleep in tents and vehicles. The city continues to expand shelter programs, but the crisis remains a pressing issue.
5. Denver, CO
Denver’s homeless population has reached 14,281, fueled by a mix of rising housing costs and economic hardships. City officials are increasing shelter space and transitional housing programs to help those in need.
4. Seattle, WA
In Seattle and King County, 16,868 people face homelessness, often battling cold, wet conditions. The city has ramped up efforts to address the crisis, but encampments remain widespread.
3. Chicago, IL
Chicago’s homeless population stands at 18,836, with shelters working to provide relief from the city’s harsh winters. Despite efforts, affordable housing remains a major challenge in the Windy City.
2. Los Angeles, CA
Over 71,201 people are without stable housing in Los Angeles, reflecting the severe housing crisis in the region. Encampments line streets, and rising rent prices make it harder for many to find permanent homes.
1. New York City, NY
With a staggering 140,134 people experiencing homelessness, New York City has the highest homeless population in the nation. The city’s shelters and outreach programs struggle with the growing service demand.
What Do You Think?
Homelessness is a complex issue with no easy solution, but the numbers tell an important story. What do you think about these rankings? Are there local efforts in your city making a difference? Share your thoughts, experiences, or ideas in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!
Ed spent his childhood in the backwoods of Maine, where harsh winters taught him the value of survival skills. With a background in bushcraft and off-grid living, Ed has honed his expertise in fire-making, hunting, and wild foraging. He writes from personal experience, sharing practical tips and hands-on techniques to thrive in any outdoor environment. Whether it’s primitive camping or full-scale survival, Ed’s advice is grounded in real-life challenges.