The City of Long Beach has released the results of its 2026 Point in Time Count, reporting that 3,729 people were experiencing homelessness during the annual count conducted in January. That represents an increase of 134 people, or 3.7%, compared with 2025.

While the total number of people experiencing homelessness increased, City officials emphasized several trends they describe as signs of progress. According to the report, more people are staying in shelters and interim housing, while the percentage of people experiencing unsheltered homelessness declined from 72.5% in 2025 to 69.4% in 2026, the lowest level recorded in the past four years.

The City said shelter capacity expanded by 164 beds during 2025, bringing the total number of shelter and interim housing beds to 1,521. On the night of the count, 1,141 people were staying in shelters, a 15.4% increase from the previous year. Officials say expanded shelter access has helped connect more people with case management, housing navigation, behavioral health services, and pathways to permanent housing.

The report also identifies several ongoing challenges. The percentage of people experiencing chronic homelessness increased from 46.7% to 58%, while the share of people newly experiencing homelessness rose from 10.9% to 12.4%. Financial hardship and unemployment remained the most commonly reported contributing factors, followed by family disruption and mental health.

According to the City, housing affordability continues to be one of the primary drivers of homelessness. More than 40% of survey respondents cited financial hardship or unemployment as a contributing factor to losing housing. The report also notes that slightly more than half of those surveyed said they lost their housing outside Long Beach, reinforcing the City’s view that homelessness is a regional issue rather than one confined to city boundaries.

Long Beach officials say they will continue investing in homelessness prevention programs, rental assistance, affordable housing developments, and supportive services as part of their Housing First strategy. The City also highlighted several affordable housing projects currently under construction, along with expanded rental assistance and legal support programs aimed at helping residents remain housed before they experience homelessness.

Residents interested in reviewing all of the data, charts, demographic information, and the City’s full analysis can read the complete 2026 Homeless Point in Time Count Report, which we have linked within this article.