Annual Snapshot Estimate of Spokane County's Homeless Population Shows Overall Decrease for Second Year in a Row

Spokane County's 2025 Point-in-Time Count reveals a second year of declining homelessness, with 1,806 individuals surveyed across the region. The count showed a notable drop in sheltered homelessness, falling to 1,189 individuals, attributed to enhanced coordination efforts that improved housing placements by 40 percent. Despite this progress, unsheltered individuals increased from 443 to 617, partly due to a new survey methodology focused on outreach teams. The shelter system reported a 16 percent vacancy rate, emphasizing the need for expanded shelter capacity. Mayor Lisa Brown stated that consistent engagement is vital for helping individuals find treatment and housing.

Since the count, the City has closed four encampments, achieving an 80 percent success rate in housing referrals. Other data points reveal that 43 percent of adults surveyed reported serious mental illness, and 52 percent reported substance use disorders. The City of Spokane remains committed to investing in programs that support individuals experiencing homelessness.