Homelessness Statistics in 2021: Who Experiences Homelessness and Why?

What factors contribute to homelessness? 

Homelessness is preventable, but first, these five key factors that lead to homelessness must be addressed: 

1. Sustainable housing: Without affordable housing, people face eviction and housing instability. Two housing models have been shown to prevent homelessness: permanent supportive housing, and rapid re-housing. HUD also administers public housing and voucher programs to help low-income households afford housing in the private market. 
2. Income: Low-income households often struggle to keep pace with inflation and rising housing costs. The typical American wage has barely increased in three decades. Job training and apprenticeship programs can help un- or underemployed individuals secure stable, long-term employment. In addition, transportation assistance, food stamps, supplemental security income, and childcare subsidies are supportive services that can help low-income households achieve stable housing.
3. Health: Chronic health issues, behavioral health crises, and long-term disability may lead to homelessness. Being homeless, in turn, exacerbates these conditions and increases barriers to medical treatment. 
4. Escaping Violence: For women and sometimes children, domestic violence is a leading cause of homelessness. Survivors of domestic violence may become homeless as a result of escaping an abusive relationship. Emergency shelters, transitional housing, and short- and long-term rental assistance can help survivors regain stable housing. 
5. Racial Inequities: Minorities – particularly Black and Native Americans – experience homelessness more often than white people due to the long-term effects of systemic racism.