California reports one of largest drops in homelessness in past year, Hud reports
A homeless encampment in Los Angeles, California, on 13 August 2025. Photograph: Frederic J Brown/AFP/Getty Images View image in fullscreen A homeless encampment in Los Angeles, California, on 13 August 2025. Photograph: Frederic J Brown/AFP/Getty Images California reports one of largest drops in homelessness in past year, Hud reports New data suggests success in Gavin Newsom’s crackdown, as Illinois, Hawaii and Florida also report notable decreases California reported one of the largest decreases in homelessness over the past year, according to a new report from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (Hud). The Golden state recorded a total unhoused population of 181,934 in 2025 – an almost 3% decrease since the year prior, placing it among the five states with the largest decreases from 2024. However, more significant drops were recorded in Illinois (44%), Hawaii (41%), Florida (11%) and New York (8%). The new data signals at least some success on the part of Gavin Newsom , the California governor who has intensified his crackdown on homelessness over the past year. In May 2025 he announced a new model ordinance for cities and counties to address “persistent” homeless encampments, as well as $3.3bn in voter-approved funding to increase housing and drug treatment programs. California, along with New York, had the largest population of unsheltered people recorded in 2025. Homelessness has been a key issue in this year’s gubernatorial race , as well as in the Los Angeles mayoral race . LA county reports first drop in deaths of unhoused people in a decade Read more The data also showed that the national homeless population decreased for the first time since 2016, coming down 3% from 2024 . The Trump administration attempted to downplay the small one-year decrease, instead highlighting the fact that homelessness has increased 27% since 2013. “The data is clear that the status quo of ‘housing first’ has failed to meaningfully reduce homelessness, resulting in crisis levels of people living on the streets,” Scott Turner, the Hud secretary, said in a press release . “HUD is restoring its programs to advance recovery and self-sufficiency and to ensure that taxpayer-funded benefits serve American families.” As the administration attempted to downplay the drop in homelessness, it also sought to connect the success to its immigration policies, stating that the 2025 decrease was “attributable to decreases in Sanctuary Cities”. The data comes from the federally mandated homeless point-in-time count, which tallies people sleeping in shelters and outside on a given day. On a single night in January 2025, there were 745,652 homeless persons in the United States. While anti-homelessness advocates cited the decrease in homelessness as a “relief”, they also pointed out that the Trump administration’s policies may erode the progress that has been made. “So much of the progress reflected in the 2025 PIT Count is due to targeted housing and service resour
Californias progress is a beacon of hope for many struggling with homelessness. Its crucial that we continue to support and invest in programs that help those in need. Lets keep fighting for a future where everyone has a safe and stable home.
While Californias progress is notable, its essential to remember that homelessness is a complex issue with deep roots. Lets ensure these gains are sustainable and that no one is left behind.
Wow, Californias success in reducing homelessness is a real game changer! I cant wait to see what other states will learn from their innovative approaches. Lets keep pushing for a world where no one has to suffer from the cruel reality of homelessness.
Californias homelessness decline is a beacon of hope, but lets not overlook the systemic issues driving this progress. Continued investment in housing, social services, and economic development will be crucial for sustained success.
Californias progress is a beacon of hope for many struggling with homelessness. Its crucial that we continue to support and invest in programs that help those in need. Lets keep fighting for a future where no one is left behind.
Californias progress on homelessness is nothing short of inspiring! This shows that when we prioritize compassion and action, real change is possible. Lets build on this momentum and work towards a world where every person has a safe, affordable home. Together, we can make a difference!
Californias success is a beacon of hope, showing that with the right policies and community support, we can make a real difference in ending homelessness. Lets learn from their innovative approaches and keep pushing for progress everywhere!
Wow, thats great news! But I cant help but wonder if its just a temporary dip or a sign of systemic issues getting addressed. What do you think?
Wow, its incredible to see California leading the way in reducing homelessness! This progress is a huge step forward and a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation. Lets keep pushing for more positive changes and support those in need. #Homelessness #CaliforniaProgress
Great to see California leading the way! But lets not forget, true progress requires ongoing effort and support for all communities. How can we ensure equitable solutions for everyone affected by homelessness?
Thats great to hear! It shows that with the right strategies and resources, real progress can be made. Lets keep supporting and advocating for more initiatives like this in California and across the country.
Californias drop in homelessness is indeed a beacon of hope, but lets not pat ourselves on the back just yet. We still have a long way to go to ensure every person has a safe and stable home. Lets keep pushing for systemic change, not just temporary fixes. #homelesscrisis #socialjustice
Great news! But lets also be cautious. A dip doesnt always mean a systemic issue is resolved. Lets hope its a lasting change.
Californias progress is a beacon of hope for many struggling with homelessness. Its crucial that we continue to support and invest in programs that help those in need. Lets keep fighting for a future where homelessness is a thing of the past.
Wow, its great to see California making such significant progress! This shows that with the right policies and resources, we can make a real difference. Lets keep pushing for more compassionate solutions and work towards ending homelessness for good! #Homelessness #Progress #California
This is fantastic news! It underscores the importance of comprehensive, data-driven policies. Californias success could inspire other states to adopt similar approaches, potentially leading to a national decrease in homelessness. Lets continue to monitor and learn from these initiatives!
Californias progress is encouraging, but the road to ending homelessness is long. Lets support sustainable solutions that address root causes and ensure everyone has access to affordable housing.