NewsTimes of San DiegoAugust 24, 2026San Diego
California reports decline in official homelessness counts for 2025 and 2026
California recorded a decrease in its official homelessness count in 2025, with preliminary 2026 data suggesting that many regions across the state are continuing to see reductions in their homeless populations. These findings mark a shift following years of consistent increases in the state's homelessness figures.
Read the full story at Times of San DiegoWhy It Matters
The reported decline in homelessness figures impacts how state and local governments allocate resources and evaluate the effectiveness of current housing and social service programs.
Key Facts
- California reported a decrease in its official homelessness count for the year 2025.
- Preliminary data for 2026 indicates that many regions in California are continuing to see a decline in their homeless populations.
- The reported decline follows a multi-year trend of increasing homelessness figures in the state.
- There are ongoing questions regarding the accuracy and methodology of the homelessness counting process.
Who's Mentioned
organizationRAND Corporation“Conducted a study on homelessness in Los Angeles”personNiki Jones“Executive Director of the Sacramento Regional Coalition to End Homelessness”personDawn McLeish“Deputy Director of Human Services for San Joaquin County”personJonathan Russell“Director of Housing and Homeless Services for Alameda County”organizationLos Angeles Times“Reported on accounting errors in Los Angeles”personRoxanne Wilson“Director of Homeless Services for Monterey County”organizationU.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development“Federal agency overseeing homelessness data”locationCalifornia“The state where the homelessness data was collected.”organizationCalMatters“Original publisher of the story”