Utah homeless population jumps 18%, data shows growing need for action

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — There has been a significant increase in the number of people experiencing homelessness in Utah.

According to the latest data released by the Utah Office of Homeless Services (OHS), the annual point-in-time (PIT) count, that is taken in January, increased 18% compared to the same time last year.

The PIT Count is a count of sheltered and unsheltered people experiencing homelessness on a single night in January,

where the U.S. Department of Housing and Development requires that states conduct an annual count of people experiencing homelessness who are sheltered in emergency shelter, transitional housing, and Safe Havens on a single night. 

According to OHS, the PIT count showed 4,584 Utahns experiencing homelessness on a single night, which is a 18% increase from the previous year. Data shows that the number of children, people over the age of 64, and veterans experiencing homelessness have also increased. 

Utah’s homelessness rate now stands at 13 per 10,000 people, up from 11 per 10,000, but still well below the 2024 national rate of 23 per 10,000.

The average length of stay in an emergency shelter in 2024 has increased by 10 days, which is a 17% rise compared to 2023. Officials say this emphasizes the need for a quicker housing placements and more robust exit options, including access to treatment, supportive services, and other long-term solutions.

“This year’s data tells a complex story. While most people still resolve their homelessness quickly with shelter and support, we’re seeing growing needs, especially among seniors, veterans, and first-time shelter residents,” said Wayne Niederhauser, State Homeless Coordinator in a press release.

Niederhauser did note that supportive housing remains a key driver of long-term stability. Governor Spencer Cox (R-Utah) has been focusing on the housing crisis in the state and announced plans at the beginning of the year to construct 35,000 starter homes within five years. In May, Cox noted that 5,100 starter homes have been built and sold. He has also launched the BUILD Coordinating Council, a team that is tasked with helping the state plan for the future.