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 indicates a second consecutive year of declining homelessness, with 1,806 individuals surveyed on January 22. The count showed a drop in sheltered homelessness from 1,578 to 1,189, attributed to enhanced coordination in moving individuals into permanent housing. Despite this, the number of unsheltered individuals increased from 443 to 617, a change linked to the new outreach methodology. The City of Spokane is expanding shelter capacity and has successfully closed four encampments, resulting in an 80 percent success rate for housing referrals. Mayor Lisa Brown highlighted the importance of consistent engagement in effectively addressing homelessness.

Volunteers of America supports this initiative, emphasizing the need for tailored interventions. Notably, 43 percent of surveyed adults reported serious mental illness, and 52 percent indicated substance use disorders. The city’s ongoing efforts aim to ensure that those seeking shelter have access to safe accommodations.