Rural Research Briefs
Shawn Poynter / There Is More Work To Be Done
Shawn Poynter / There Is More Work To Be Done
RURAL RESEARCH BRIEF: Homelessness Continues to Increase in the U.S. and in Rural America
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s 2024 Annual Homeless Assessment Report (AHAR) shows that homelessness has reached an all-time high nationwide, with rural areas experiencing significant increases. This brief from the Housing Assistance Council analyzes the data and finds that more than 126,000 people experienced homelessness in rural Continuums of Care (CoCs), with a disproportionate rise in unsheltered families and chronically homeless individuals. The brief explores contributing factors such as the end of pandemic-era protections, economic pressures, and natural disasters. Despite these challenges, a notable decline in veteran homelessness highlights the impact of sustained, targeted interventions.
