Homelessness is escalating across the United States in 2023, with significant increases observed in major urban centers. Data collected by the Wall Street Journal reveals a concerning trend, with Chicago, Miami, Boston, and Phoenix all reporting elevated homelessness rates. This data encompasses 67 of the 100 areas with the largest homeless populations in 2022, and a striking 48 of these areas reported an increase in homelessness this year, a jump exceeding recent years.
Los Angeles and New York City, two cities with the nation's highest homeless populations, have yet to release their 2023 data. However, projections suggest these cities will also experience substantial increases, potentially driving the national rate even higher. The growing homeless population has been linked to rising crime rates in major cities across the country, and some California residents are relocating to states like Texas and Colorado due to declining quality of life.
Los Angeles and New York City, which already lead the nation in homelessness, are predicted to see further increases this year. (Fox 11 Los Angeles)
New York City is facing additional challenges due to the influx of migrants arriving from the U.S.-Mexico border. Mayor Eric Adams recently signed an executive order modifying city laws regarding shelter provision for homeless individuals and migrants. This change alters the city's guarantee of providing shelter beds to families with children by 4 a.m. if they arrive at an intake facility by 10 p.m.
Mayor Eric Adams has criticized the Biden administration for insufficient federal support in addressing New York City's homeless crisis. (Luiz C. Ribeiro/New York Daily News/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)
In San Diego, city council members recently voted 5-4 to approve a proposal banning homeless encampments on public property if shelter beds are available. This measure also prohibits camping near schools and in public parks, regardless of shelter availability. The move comes after years of mounting frustration over the city's growing homeless population.
