HUD Delayed Report Shows Nevada Homelessness Declined Slightly in 2025

A long-awaited federal report revealed a slight decrease in homelessness in Nevada during President Biden’s final year in office. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) released its annual report on May 29 after a five-month delay, showing that 30 in every 10,000 people in Nevada were experiencing homelessness. This data, based on a snapshot of one night in January 2025, reflects policies implemented during the Biden administration.

Nevada identified 9,905 individuals experiencing homelessness, including those unsheltered, in emergency shelters, or transitional housing programs. This represents a 2% decline from the previous year’s count of 10,106. While the report highlights a positive trend, advocates emphasize the gravity of the situation, noting that the overall number remains high.

Travis Sandefur, director of Washoe County’s Housing and Homeless Services Division, described the numbers as “staggering.” He pointed out that many people are vulnerable to homelessness due to financial instability or sudden medical emergencies. “So many people in this country and in this community are one paycheck away from disaster,” he said, underscoring the need for continued support and resources.

The report also noted that nearly half of those identified in Nevada were unsheltered, highlighting the challenges faced by individuals living on the streets. Homelessness among families with children decreased by nearly 2%, from 1,700 to 1,453. The largest share of the population experiencing homelessness consists of 8,452 individuals, many of whom face chronic homelessness, defined as being unhoused for at least a year and struggling with serious mental illness, substance abuse, or physical disability.

Nationally, HUD reported approximately 746,000 people experiencing homelessness, a 3% decrease from the previous year. This marks the first nationwide decline since 2016, according to the National Alliance to End Homelessness. However, Nevada’s numbers have risen significantly over the years, with the 2024 report showing a 13-year high in Southern Nevada.

Advocates welcome any reduction in homelessness, emphasizing the importance of sustained efforts to address the root causes of displacement. “Any reduction in the number of people forced to live on the street or at risk of losing their home is welcomed,” said Renee Willis, president of the National Low Income Housing Coalition. The report serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for compassion, policy reform, and community support.

Source: Read the original report