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Boston officials reported a 19% decrease in overall homelessness since 2021.

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One night each winter, officials canvass Boston to document the number of homeless people living in the city at that point in time. The Wu administration recently released data from the 2026 Homeless Census, which shows notable decreases in Boston’s homeless population. 

The latest census found that there were 3,674 homeless people living in Boston, down from 5,506 in 2025. The number of single homeless adults fell from 2,122 to 2,001 between 2025 and 2026. 

The census counts those living on the street as well as people living in emergency shelters and transitional housing facilities. No families were found to be living on the street during the 2026 point-in-time count. Officials say this has been the case every year since federal reporting began in 2007. 

There were 1,673 people in families living in emergency shelters or transitional housing on the night of the 2026 count, down from 3,384 in 2025. 

The 2026 census was conducted on the night of Jan. 22. More than 300 volunteers helped with the effort, including public officials, first responders, and public health workers. They made their way through 45 distinct areas, conducting surveys and distributing items to help people stay warm. 

Overall, officials reported a 19% decrease in overall homelessness since 2021. This includes a 31% decrease in unsheltered homelessness and a 28% decrease in veteran homelessness. 

“While cities across the country are facing tough challenges related to housing instability and homelessness, Boston is continuing to move in the right direction by creating housing, strengthening partnerships, and helping more people transition from homelessness into permanent homes,” Mayor Michelle Wu said in a statement. 

The data is a testament to the success of policies designed to increase permanent supportive housing and affordable housing developments across the city and state, Boston officials said. More than 4,400 formerly homeless people were housed in 2025, compared to about 3,000 in 2024. 

“The Point-in-Time Count helps us understand where needs remain, while also showing the progress that is possible through coordinated housing strategies and strong partnerships,” Chief of Housing Sheila Dillon said in a statement. “Since 2021, Boston has significantly reduced unsheltered homelessness and veteran homelessness while expanding supportive housing opportunities across the city.”

Homelessness in Boston has decreased over the past decade, at least according to the point-in-time censuses. There were 6,628 homeless people on the night of the 2016 count.