Annual Homelessness Assessment (PIT Count)
771,480 — up from 653,104 a year ago; roughly the population of Seattle
What is the current Annual Homelessness Assessment (PIT Count)?
771,480 people were experiencing homelessness on a single night in January 2024, according to HUD's Annual Homelessness Assessment Report — the highest count ever recorded. This was up from 653,000 the prior year, and the count has climbed every year for five consecutive years. The point-in-time methodology significantly understates the total number of people who experience homelessness over the course of a full year. Source: HUD Annual Homelessness Assessment (PIT Count).
771,480 Americans homeless — all-time record in 2024 PIT count
Up 18% from 2023 and 33% from pre-pandemic 2020. HUD Annual Homeless Assessment Report.
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How has Annual Homelessness Assessment (PIT Count) changed over time?
| Period | Value | YoY Change |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 771,480 | +118376.00 |
| 2023 | 653,104 | +70642.00 |
| 2022 | 582,462 | — |
| 2020 | 580,466 | +12466.00 |
| 2019 | 568,000 | +15170.00 |
| 2018 | 552,830 | −912.00 |
| 2017 | 553,742 | +3814.00 |
| 2016 | 549,928 | −14780.00 |
| 2015 | 564,708 | — |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Americans are homeless?
771,480 people were counted as homeless on a single night in January 2024 — the highest point-in-time count ever recorded. The actual number of people who experience homelessness over the course of a year is substantially higher, as the count captures only one night.
Is homelessness increasing?
Yes. The annual point-in-time count has climbed every year for five consecutive years, with the most recent year showing a jump from 653,000 to 771,480 — an increase of approximately 18% in a single year.
Where does homelessness data come from?
HUD's Annual Homelessness Assessment Report (AHAR) is based on the annual point-in-time count conducted on a single night in January by local Continuums of Care across the country. Volunteers count people in shelters and unsheltered locations.
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