Learn More: Homelessness
Metadata
Variable Definition:
Total Homeless Population: The total number of homeless people documented during the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA)'s Homeless Count in January
Sheltered Population: The total number of sheltered homeless people documented during the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA)'s Homeless Count in January
Unsheltered Population: The total number of unsheltered homeless people documented during the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA)'s Homeless Count in January
(Note: Variables do not include Long Beach, Glendale or Pasadena)
Source:
Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA)'s Homeless Count
Years Available:
2017, 2018, 2019, 2020
Geographic Unit:
Census Tract
Why are these Variables Important to Measure?
Homelessness intersects with many policy areas, including
housing, economic development, public health, criminal justice, and racial and
social justice. With over 66,000 people experiencing homelessness in 2020, up
13% from the previous year, homelessness is a growing problem for L.A. County
that has likely worsened during the COVID-19 Pandemic. It is important to understand how many people
are experiencing homelessness in the county and where they reside. This data
can help policymakers decide where to direct resources and build shelters and
new affordable housing.
To measure the homeless population in Los Angeles County,
the Los Angeles Homeless Service Authority (LAHSA) conducts a Point-in-Time
(PIT) Count one night in January each year. They count both unsheltered people
living on the street, abandoned buildings, and other places not meant for human
habitation, as well as sheltered people living in homeless shelters or other
government or non-profit funded transitional housing.
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