Homelessness still rising in Washington, state data shows

Washington's homelessness rose by 4. 4% in 2025, with 22,173 individuals recorded as homeless. Unsheltered individuals comprised 33% of this total, while the rest were sheltered in emergency accommodations. Notably, King County's unsheltered data was omitted this year, as it typically contributes around 50% of the state's unsheltered results. The Department of Commerce highlighted that the Point In Time Count's reliability can be affected by various factors, including weather and volunteer involvement.

In a related report, the Snapshot of Homelessness counted 158,791 individuals experiencing homelessness, reflecting an overall increase from previous years. Director Joe Nguyễn urged for intensified efforts to address the homelessness crisis, citing the urgent need for safe sleeping arrangements. The Washington Legislature allocated about $1. 8 billion for housing and homelessness initiatives in the 2025-27 biennium. This funding targets programs designed to assist various populations, including adults, families, and youth facing homelessness.