Rising Homelessness: A Closer Look at Denver, US, and Washington's Numbers

The homeless population in Denver has grown significantly, with a 32% increase in a single year, reaching a total of 10,054 people. The city ranks fifth in the nation for homeless population, and third in the increase of homelessness in one year. The majority of the homeless population in Denver is from Colorado, debunking the misconception that most people moved from out of state. People of color are overrepresented in the homeless population, and mental health issues, addiction, disabilities, and domestic violence are linked to homelessness. Youth homelessness is also on the rise, with a 53% increase in unaccompanied homeless youth in the past five years. Additionally, tens of thousands of migrants have arrived in Denver, fleeing political unrest and poverty in Venezuela, with the city spending $35 million on migrant services.