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NewsSuncoast SearchlightAugust 24, 2026Manatee

Homelessness risk population increases by over 50% in Sarasota and Manatee counties

The number of residents at risk of homelessness in Sarasota and Manatee counties has grown by more than 50% over the last three years. While the total number of currently homeless individuals has decreased, local organizations report a significant rise in the population struggling to maintain housing due to the rising cost of living.

homelessnesshousingcost of livingSarasota CountyManatee County
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Why It Matters

This trend indicates a growing segment of the local population is facing housing instability, which may increase demand for social services and housing assistance programs in the region.

Key Facts

  • The population at risk of homelessness in Sarasota and Manatee counties has increased by more than 50% over the past three years.
  • The total number of currently homeless individuals in the region has declined.
  • Rising costs of living are identified as the primary driver for the increase in the at-risk population.

Who's Mentioned

organizationSuncoast Partnership to End Homelessness“Organization tracking homelessness data in Sarasota and Manatee counties”locationNew College of Florida Selby Auditorium“Location of the data presentation meeting”locationManatee“County experiencing a rise in the population at risk of homelessness.”organizationHarvest House“Emergency shelter operator”locationSarasota“County experiencing a rise in the population at risk of homelessness.”personHolly Bullard“Chief strategy and development officer for the Florida Policy Institute”organizationFlorida Policy Institute“Policy research organization”personMarysa Jackson“Local resident sharing personal experience with housing instability”personJalynn Booker“Director of data systems for Suncoast Partnership to End Homelessness”organizationSuncoast Searchlight“The news outlet that published the report.”organizationSalvation Army“Service provider for housing assistance”personTaylor Neighbors“CEO of Suncoast Partnership to End Homelessness”