How Many People Are Homeless?

Homeless is the state of being without a permanent and adequate nighttime residence. The term may refer to a person who sleeps on the street, stays in homeless shelters or mission facilities, in transitional housing, in motels and hotels, camping grounds, car parks or other temporary living arrangements; in a camp or an abandoned building; or in a place not meant for human habitation (such as a treehouse). People who live in this condition can also be considered part of the population referred to as the invisible homeless, including couch surfers and those who stay with family members or friends.

There are a wide variety of estimates of the number of people who experience homelessness, ranging from government figures to advocates’ estimates of more than 2 million. But a common view is that the numbers are on the rise, and that the country has a long way to go to reach its goal of eliminating homelessness.

The causes of homelessness are numerous. Some experts believe that a shortage of affordable housing is the main cause. Others point to a lack of access to high-wage jobs and discriminatory housing practices. Especially disturbing are the data showing that black and Latino youth are 83 percent and 33 percent more likely to be homeless than their white peers.

There is a growing recognition among researchers, educators and civic leaders that the problem of homelessness must be addressed on many fronts. It requires a multidisciplinary approach, increased funding for research and better education of the next generation of leaders. And it means a commitment to the principle that every child has a right to a safe, healthy place to call home.

While it’s easy to recognize the need for more housing, the problem is complicated by a wide array of social, economic and cultural factors. It’s also not easy to determine exactly how many people are homeless. That’s because the definition of homelessness is not well defined, and different communities use differing criteria. One important criterion is whether the person meets the McKinney-Vento Act’s definition of homelessness, which includes staying in a homeless shelter, mission facility or other type of temporary accommodation. The broader definition is a bit easier to comprehend, though it can still be difficult to calculate. It involves being unable to afford a “safe, decent and sanitary” dwelling. That means the housing must meet local standards for sanitation, heat, ventilation, safety, size, quality and appearance, as well as be free of vermin, mold and other health hazards. In addition, the residence must provide a stable and secure environment and meet basic needs such as food and clothing.