Best States to Be Homeless 2026

Highlighted States

Texas

The cities of Houston and Austin are among some of the best cities to be homeless, as they offer the most support to those who are down on their luck. In fact, homelessness has dropped drastically in the last ten years in the city of Houston due to their housing first policy. The policy has aided in moving large swarms of the homeless from their respective shelters into a more permanent housing situation. The policy is touted across the country as being one of the most effective policies when looking to combat homelessness.

How does it work? The issue of homelessness is seldom analyzed and attacked at the root of the problem. When someone has a permanent housing situation where their privacy can be respected, the person themselves seems to have an air that is more responsible and sensible. Giving the homeless a permanent dwelling seems to inspire hope for the future. Furthermore, permanent locations are a stepping stone to finding a steady job, as most employers would not look favorably on those who do not have a housing situation.

Utah

Salt Lake City, since 2015, has announced that they have almost eliminated homelessness in the city and that there are very few people without a permanent housing situation. While they claim this to be true, there has been a spike in homelessness over recent years. This is not to discredit the policies and enforcement being enacted in both the city and the state, as it is clear that the authorities have taken matters into their own hands and have dealt with the problem particularly well.

For more than a decade, the homelessness initiative in the city prioritized giving a dwelling to the homeless and giving them a private room that they can call their own. While most opt for very run-down areas in the poorest parts of the area, the city has built various spaces that are attractive and appealing, which are conducive to building up the confidence of homeless people. The quality of the housing is aesthetically pleasing and very affordable for those who are on the housing program.

The assistance offered is to integrate the members back into society, giving them the skills and confidence necessary to enter the workforce and work on physical and mental health issues, as well as inspire communication that has been lost by loved ones if at all possible.

California

At first glance, this may seem confusing. California has many sprawling urban centers which have the largest population in the country if New York City is not taken into consideration. The policies in various cities and jurisdictions are quite average, as they have not been completely successful in curbing the problem. Nevertheless, it is one of the best states to be homeless in, particular due to the climate. The Californian weather is temperate, meaning that it is never too cold in the winter, and not too cold in the summer. This improves the quality of life, even for those who cannot secure a permanent solution.