Homelessness is one of the most visible and challenging issues facing cities across the country today. While its causes are complex and varied—ranging from economic hardship to rising housing costs, mental health crises, and insufficient social services—many urban areas are finding themselves overwhelmed by the growing number of individuals experiencing homelessness. Here are 15 U.S. cities that are struggling to control homelessness at the moment.

Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles is at the forefront of the homelessness crisis in the U.S., with thousands of people living on the streets, in cars, or in encampments. The high cost of housing and lack of affordable rental options are the main contributors, while mental health and substance abuse issues make it difficult to manage long-term solutions.

San Francisco, California

San Francisco’s homelessness problem is exacerbated by its extreme housing costs and income inequality. The city has implemented various programs to address the crisis, but the lack of affordable housing, combined with an influx of tech industry wealth, has left many vulnerable individuals without stable living conditions.

New York City, New York

Despite having one of the largest shelter systems in the country, New York City faces ongoing struggles with homelessness. High rent prices, insufficient affordable housing, and complex bureaucratic processes have made it difficult for many to find permanent housing, leading to a persistent cycle of homelessness, especially among families.

Seattle, Washington

Seattle’s homelessness crisis continues to grow, largely due to skyrocketing housing costs and insufficient mental health services. The city has taken steps to provide temporary shelters and support services, but these efforts have not been enough to keep pace with the rising number of people experiencing homelessness.

San Diego, California

San Diego’s temperate climate draws a large homeless population, but the city struggles to provide adequate housing and services. Many people live in tents and encampments as affordable housing remains scarce. The city has launched various initiatives, but long-term solutions remain elusive in this coastal city.

Portland, Oregon

Portland has seen a sharp rise in homelessness, with a growing number of people living in tents along streets and in parks. Rising rent costs, coupled with a lack of affordable housing and mental health services, have overwhelmed local efforts to provide relief, making homelessness a visible and ongoing challenge.

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago faces a multifaceted homelessness issue driven by economic hardship, job loss, and affordable housing shortages. While the city has worked to expand shelters and services, many remain unhoused, and the cold winters add another layer of urgency to the city’s struggle to address homelessness.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia’s homelessness crisis is largely driven by poverty and a lack of affordable housing. The city has taken steps to expand homeless services, but the demand far exceeds the available resources. As encampments grow, the city continues to grapple with how to balance compassion with effective management.

Austin, Texas

Austin’s rapid population growth and rising housing costs have made it increasingly difficult for low-income residents to afford housing. The city has implemented various measures to address homelessness, but the problem persists as more individuals find themselves priced out of the housing market.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas has a significant homelessness problem, with many individuals living in encampments or along the city’s storm drainage system. Economic instability and the lack of affordable housing options contribute to the issue, and while the city has attempted to provide temporary relief, long-term solutions remain a challenge.

Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix is seeing a rapid increase in homelessness, driven by rising housing costs and economic inequality. The city’s shelter system is overwhelmed, and many people resort to living in makeshift encampments. Local officials continue to struggle with how to balance enforcement with providing resources and support for those in need.

Denver, Colorado

Denver’s housing affordability crisis has pushed many people into homelessness, and the city’s shelter system is unable to keep up with the demand. Encampments have become more common, and while the city has made efforts to expand housing and services, the issue remains a significant challenge.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Homelessness is particularly visible in Honolulu due to the high cost of living and limited affordable housing options. Many individuals experiencing homelessness are native Hawaiians or long-time residents who have been priced out of the housing market, and the city’s resources are stretched thin in trying to address the problem.

Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta has a growing homelessness problem, with many people displaced due to economic hardship and the lack of affordable housing. The city has expanded services and housing initiatives, but with rising rents and stagnant wages, homelessness continues to rise, particularly among families and veterans.

Sacramento, California

Sacramento has seen a surge in homelessness, with many people forced to live in tents and encampments due to the lack of affordable housing. The city has increased efforts to provide temporary shelters and services, but the housing crisis and rising living costs continue to fuel the issue.