New York City Street Homelessness Rose 11 Percent

A March 2026 city survey identified nearly 5,000 unsheltered individuals on streets and in transit facilities.

Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Employment

Bold flat-color editorial illustration depicting a dark subway entrance silhouette, evoking the systemic challenges of urban homelessness. — New York City officials reported an 11% increase in street homelessness in 2026, marking a 45% total rise since 2022. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Is homelessness in your local area getting better or worse?

On March 10, 2026, New York City officials conducted an annual survey that found street homelessness increased by 11% compared to fiscal year 2025. This latest count represents a 45% rise in the unsheltered population since fiscal year 2022.

Why it matters

The survey results highlight a consistent upward trend in the number of individuals living on city streets and in transit hubs since 2022. City officials shifted the counting process from January to March this year to account for historic winter weather conditions.

The city recorded an 11% increase in unsheltered residents since fiscal year 2025 and a 45% increase since fiscal year 2022. The March 10 survey was conducted in conditions averaging nearly 60 degrees.

The details

City officials utilized the Homeless Outreach Population Estimate methodology to track individuals residing in public spaces and transit facilities. Every annual survey conducted since fiscal year 2022 has shown a continuous increase in the city's unsheltered population.

Fiscal Year 2022 served as the initial baseline for comparative homelessness data.
The survey was originally scheduled for January 2026 but was delayed due to winter weather.
The annual street homelessness survey took place on March 10, 2026.
Fiscal Year 2025 provided the baseline for the most recent year-over-year increase.
The city released the final homeless data publicly on September 18, 2026.

Macro View

The recorded data follows a pattern set by the city's Homeless Outreach Population Estimate, which has documented consistent annual increases in unsheltered populations since 2022. This upward trajectory continues to diverge from previous years, marking a period of sustained growth in street homelessness.

The reported rise in homelessness suggests ongoing pressure on public transit infrastructure and community support services. Residents may observe increased visibility of the unsheltered population in public transit facilities and city streets.

The takeaway

The sustained growth in the number of unsheltered individuals over four years points to a deepening challenge for city support resources. Local officials continue to refine survey methods to ensure accurate tracking despite seasonal weather disruptions.