Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Abstract
Homelessness remains a persistent crisis in America’s largest and most diverse cities, despite differences in housing strategies, policy, and economic conditions. This research examines why major U.S. cities continue to experience high levels of homelessness by analyzing New York City, Los Angeles, and Seattle—three cities that consistently rank among the highest in homeless populations. According to USA Facts (2024), these cities account for roughly 33.5% of the nation’s homeless population, underscoring the urgency of this issue.
This study investigates factors contributing to the differences in homelessness rates among these cities, including housing affordability, policy effectiveness, and social services and resources. The economic and health burdens of homelessness make this research highly relevant. The National Alliance to End Homelessness (2025) found that chronic health conditions are up to six times more prevalent among the homeless, with associated costs reaching around $64,000 per person annually. In response, Los Angeles allocated $1.3 billion to homelessness initiatives in 2024, while New York and Seattle increased their budgets to $4 billion and $7 million, respectively.
This research explores the long-term consequences of homelessness, such as intergenerational poverty, and evaluates policy solutions that could reduce homelessness nationwide. By identifying effective and ineffective strategies, this study aims to inform policymakers and contribute to broader efforts to address urban homelessness.
Faculty Mentor
Dr. Susan Haynes
Recommended Citation
Gregory, Mia, "Understanding Urban Homelessness: A Comparative Analysis of NYC, LA, and Seattle" (2025). Student Scholar Symposium. 78.
https://digitalcollections.lipscomb.edu/student_scholars_symposium/2025/Full_schedule/78
Understanding Urban Homelessness: A Comparative Analysis of NYC, LA, and Seattle
Homelessness remains a persistent crisis in America’s largest and most diverse cities, despite differences in housing strategies, policy, and economic conditions. This research examines why major U.S. cities continue to experience high levels of homelessness by analyzing New York City, Los Angeles, and Seattle—three cities that consistently rank among the highest in homeless populations. According to USA Facts (2024), these cities account for roughly 33.5% of the nation’s homeless population, underscoring the urgency of this issue.
This study investigates factors contributing to the differences in homelessness rates among these cities, including housing affordability, policy effectiveness, and social services and resources. The economic and health burdens of homelessness make this research highly relevant. The National Alliance to End Homelessness (2025) found that chronic health conditions are up to six times more prevalent among the homeless, with associated costs reaching around $64,000 per person annually. In response, Los Angeles allocated $1.3 billion to homelessness initiatives in 2024, while New York and Seattle increased their budgets to $4 billion and $7 million, respectively.
This research explores the long-term consequences of homelessness, such as intergenerational poverty, and evaluates policy solutions that could reduce homelessness nationwide. By identifying effective and ineffective strategies, this study aims to inform policymakers and contribute to broader efforts to address urban homelessness.