Los Angeles County has experienced a 1.2 percent rise in its homeless population over the past year, bringing the total to an estimated 73,040 individuals across the county's 85 cities. In the city of Los Angeles alone, the number of people experiencing homelessness increased by 3.4 percent to approximately 45,194.
The number of individuals living unsheltered, including those in encampments or vehicles, saw a 3.3 percent increase countywide and a notable 7.9 percent jump within the city. These figures mark a reversal from previous years, during which the city of Los Angeles had recorded a 7.9 percent decrease in unsheltered homelessness last year and a 17.5 percent decline over the preceding two years.
Officials attribute the stalled progress to a decrease in the number of homeless residents entering shelters, coupled with funding cuts and a shortage of affordable housing that impedes transitions into permanent homes. Mayor Karen Bass acknowledged the concerning data in a statement, reaffirming her commitment to addressing the crisis.
Bass stated that while homelessness had been reduced by historic margins for two consecutive years, recent federal and state policy changes and funding cuts have contributed to the current increase. She specifically cited the Trump administration's impact on rising costs for essentials like gas, groceries, and rent, as well as cuts to safety-net programs, as factors exacerbating homelessness in Los Angeles. A 50 percent reduction in state Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention (HHAP) funding, which resulted in a $70 million impact on LA city alone, was also identified as a significant hindrance.
Despite these challenges, Bass highlighted that the city has reduced homelessness by 11 percent since the start of 2023, moved thousands into temporary housing, assisted over 6,000 individuals off the streets through the 'Inside Safe' initiative, and housed more than 1,000 homeless veterans. The city has also addressed 130 encampments and provided eviction defense for 85,000 residents. Bass further noted that philanthropic efforts helped offset funding cuts, and advocacy by mayors led to the restoration of funding to $900 million.
However, Bass also pointed to systemic issues, including the decades-long approach managed by LAHSA, which has been marked by poor fund tracking, unpaid providers, and a decline in public trust. She stated the city needs to develop a more results-driven and transparent system focused on the needs of those experiencing homelessness.
Los Angeles Councilwoman Nithya Raman, a political rival, described the new figures as "disappointing, but not surprising," suggesting that current leadership has not prioritized a shift towards permanent housing solutions. Raman claimed that her district has seen a significant decrease in street homelessness due to sustained, hands-on work, and expressed confidence in extending that approach citywide.
The report also noted that approximately 40 percent of individuals placed in motel rooms through Bass's initiative have returned to the streets, often due to issues with addiction and other barriers to stability. Rampant drug use in parts of downtown Los Angeles contributes to the visible challenges in the area, with graffiti-covered walls and litter-strewn sidewalks becoming common sights.