Worsening Rental Affordability Linked to Higher Rates of Homelessness

This research brief examines the link between worsening rental affordability and rising homelessness rates. It highlights that as more renters—especially those spending over half their income on housing—struggle with affordability, homelessness rates have reached record highs, exacerbated by rising housing costs, the end of pandemic-era supports, and inadequate funding for services. The findings show a strong correlation between unaffordable rent and homelessness trends, emphasizing the need for robust public policies to lower housing costs and expand affordable housing. Policymakers are urged to consider these insights when shaping housing and homelessness programs.