Los Angeles reports decline in homelessness for second consecutive year

In 2025, Los Angeles County conducted its annual homeless count from February 18 to 20, revealing a significant decline in homelessness. The count, conducted by the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, indicated a 4% decrease in homelessness across the county and a 3.4% decrease in the city itself. This decrease marks the second consecutive year of falling figures, with national data showing a 10% drop in individuals residing on the streets. The efforts of local programs such as Mayor Karen Bass' Inside Safe initiative targeted encampment resolutions, which appeared to contribute to this trend. Despite the positive results, questions arose regarding the accuracy of the count methods. Critics pointed out potential deficiencies, such as limitations on volunteer efforts, including restrictions on counting in RVs and garages, which likely led to undercounts. Concerns were echoed by officials who emphasized the need for reliable data, arguing that the methodologies used could lead to misinformed policy decisions. Historical context illustrates that the homelessness crisis in Los Angeles has roots in multiple factors, including a severe lack of affordable housing and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. With homelessness peaking in 2023 at over 75,000 individuals in the county, steps taken over the last two years signify a critical shift in approach. Data reveal that approximately 14% of the decline over the past two years can be attributed to these initiatives. The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors recently voted to create a new department focused on Homeless Services and Housing, moving away from the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, which faced criticism for mishandling federal funds. The newly established department aims to streamline services and improve accountability, as the region continues to battle its homelessness crisis while ensuring that financial resources are effectively utilized.