Seattle & King County Homelessness

• Over 16,000 people experienced homelessness in King County in 2024.

• Nearly 9,800 individuals were living unsheltered — in tents, vehicles, or outdoors.

• King County represents more than 50% of Washington State’s homeless population.

• Unsheltered homelessness increased by approximately 28% between 2022 and 2024.

• Seattle is consistently ranked among the U.S. cities with the highest rates of homelessness.

• Rising housing costs and lack of affordable housing remain the leading causes of homelessness in the region.

• Thousands of local residents rely on emergency shelters, outreach programs, food assistance, and transitional housing services every year.

• Community organizations across Seattle continue working to provide housing, mental health support, addiction recovery services, and long-term stability for vulnerable populations.