California Makes Progress in Reducing Homelessness

Strategic Insights -

Communities across California are reporting declines in homelessness, marking significant progress in the state's efforts to address the national crisis. As President Trump's administration struggles to address homelessness, Governor Gavin Newsom's comprehensive approach has yielded promising results. Local governments in California have conducted point-in-time counts, showing encouraging preliminary data that may indicate an overall statewide decrease in homelessness.

Key Takeaways:

  • California's largest communities, such as Los Angeles and San Diego, are reporting substantial decreases in homelessness numbers, indicating success in getting people out of encampments and into care.
  • Many communities report dramatic reductions in unsheltered homelessness, with some reporting as much as a 22.6% decrease in total homelessness.
  • The state's comprehensive approach includes addressing mental health, creating new pathways for those in need, streamlining housing development, creating shelter and support, and removing dangerous encampments.
  • Governor Newsom's administration has provided unprecedented support, including a $6.4 billion Behavioral Health Bond to expand community treatment centers and permanent supportive housing units.
  • The state's efforts have resulted in a lower rate of homelessness growth compared to the nation, with California limiting its overall increase to just 3% in 2024, while the U.S. saw an 18% increase.
  • California has achieved the nation's largest reduction in veteran homelessness and made meaningful progress in reducing youth homelessness.

Statistics:

  • Preliminary data reported by communities across California indicates an overall statewide decrease in homelessness.
  • Los Angeles County reported a 9.5% decrease in unsheltered homelessness, while Los Angeles City reported a 7.9% decrease.
  • San Diego reported a 6.6% decrease in total homelessness, while San Diego City reported a 13.5% decrease.
  • Riverside County reported a 19% decrease in unsheltered homelessness, while San Bernardino County reported a 14.2% decrease.
  • Contra Costa County reported a 25.5% decrease in total homelessness, while Ventura County reported a 15.6% decrease.
  • Watsonville/Santa Cruz City & County reported a 20.4% decrease in total homelessness, while Bakersfield/Kern County reported a 2.3% decrease.
  • Kings County reported a 26.7% decrease in total homelessness, while Tulare County reported a 7.1% decrease.

Sources:

  • Gov. Gavin Newsom, "Reporting shows reduced homelessness in communities throughout California," August 18, 2025.
  • California Department of Housing and Community Development, "California's Approach to Addressing Homelessness," 2024.
  • U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, "2024 Point-in-Time Count," 2024.