Ohio Homelessness Rises as Nearly 950 Unaccompanied Youth Face Housing Instability
In 2025, the number of homeless people in Ohio increased by over 3%, and federal data revealed that hundreds of young people were homeless without a parent or guardian.
According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s annual Homelessness Assessment Report, 12,196 individuals were homeless in Ohio in January 2025, representing an increase of over 3% from the previous year.
The report found 946 unaccompanied homeless youth and 1,452 people experiencing chronic homelessness in the state. Approximately 20% of the persons counted were in unsheltered housing.
Housing advocates attribute the rise to Ohio’s lack of affordable housing. The state has an estimated 266,000-unit shortage of affordable and available rental housing, which makes it more difficult for families and young people with low incomes to stay securely housed.
Increasing deeply affordable housing is a key component to solving the problem, said Amy Riegel, executive director of the Coalition on Homelessness and Housing in Ohio.
Family homelessness can be more hidden, as families may reside in shelters instead of on the streets. Unstable housing can have an impact on children’s safety, education, health and emotional wellbeing, however.
The number of people experiencing homelessness in Franklin County (including Columbus) rose by 1.2% from 2025 to 2,587 in January. The county also is expected to see a 68% rise in unsheltered homelessness by 2028.
Housing advocates are urging increased housing affordability and renter protections to keep families in their homes.
The figures highlight the need for sustained action to ensure children and young people have access to safe, stable housing and the support needed to thrive.
