Record Surge in Homelessness: Amidst the ongoing housing crisis in the United States, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) reports a disturbing 12% increase in homelessness in 2023, marking a record high. The annual “point-in-time” estimate, conducted in January, reveals that over 650,000 people were experiencing homelessness that night. This figure represents a rise of approximately 70,650 individuals compared to the previous year. The report emphasizes that homelessness affects all household types but has a disproportionate impact on communities of color.
Black and Latino communities are hit most by the problem. Black people make up 13% of the U.S. population, yet 37% of homeless people and 50% of homeless families with children are Black. Between 2022 and 2023, 3,313 Asian Americans became homeless, a 40% rise.
The most substantial numerical growth in homelessness occurred among Latinos, with a 28% increase in 2023 compared to the previous year. This demographic accounted for 55% of the total increase in U.S. homelessness, translating to an additional 39,106 Latinos without housing this year.
The poll noted the substantial growth in first-time homeless people. Between federal fiscal years 2021 and 2022, the number of newly homeless people rose 25% while the number of people moving from homelessness to permanent housing rose 8%. The expiration of pandemic-related safeguards and eviction prevention programs and the recent rent hikes are contributing to this increased trend.
Also Read: China Struggle for Economic Recovery: Will Recent Measures Be Enough?
Rent escalation remains a critical driver of homelessness, with national median asking rent still 22% higher than pre-pandemic levels in November 2019. Despite a slight decrease in November 2023, the median asking rent for all apartments remains only 4% below the record high of $2,054 in August 2022.
The report calls attention to the urgent need for addressing the root causes of homelessness, particularly the income-rent gap. Advocates stress the importance of building on successful approaches that target specific populations and aim to broaden these strategies to ensure comprehensive assistance for anyone in need.
Over the past year, the Biden administration has taken steps to mitigate homelessness, including the implementation of the Housing Supply Action Plan to increase apartment construction. HUD’s initiatives have helped over 424,000 households connect to homeless support services or avoid homelessness altogether in 2023. Additionally, the Veterans Administration has housed more than 38,000 homeless veterans, demonstrating a multifaceted approach to tackle the complex issue of homelessness in the United States.
Our Reader’s Queries
What is the highest rate of homelessness?
The states of California, Vermont, and Oregon are currently facing the highest rates of homelessness in the United States. According to recent statistics, these states have a homeless population of over 40 per 10,000 people. Hawaii follows closely behind with a rate of 41.43. It is a concerning issue that requires immediate attention and action from the government and society as a whole.
What is the leading cause of homelessness in the United States?
Homelessness is a major issue in the United States, and addiction is the leading cause of it in 68% of cities. This alarming statistic highlights the urgent need for effective solutions to address addiction and its devastating impact on individuals and communities. It is crucial to provide support and resources to those struggling with addiction to prevent them from becoming homeless and to help them rebuild their lives. By addressing addiction, we can make significant progress in reducing homelessness and improving the well-being of our society.
How many americans are homeless 2023?
The United States has seen a surge in homelessness this year, with a government report revealing that the number of homeless individuals has reached an all-time high. The US Department of Housing and Urban Development conducted a head count in January and found that over 653,100 people were homeless across the country. This alarming statistic highlights the urgent need for effective solutions to address the issue of homelessness in the US.
What is the biggest factor for homelessness?
The number itself holds the title of being the largest factor of a number.