Title
a. Receive a presentation on the results of the 2026 Homeless Point-in-Time Count; and
b. Provide direction to staff as necessary.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
a. Receive a presentation on the results of the 2026 Homeless Point-in-Time Count; and
b. Provide direction to staff as necessary
SUMMARY:
The Homeless Point-in-Time Count, or “Homeless Census” provides a snapshot of homelessness across the county and helps inform funding, policy, program planning, and system coordination. This biennial activity is required under 24 C.F.R. Part 578 and is conducted by the Coalition of Homeless Services Providers to estimate the number of people experiencing sheltered and unsheltered homelessness.
The 2026 results show that Monterey County experienced a 15% decrease in overall homelessness, from 2,436 people in 2024 to 2,073 people in 2026. Unsheltered homelessness also decreased by 23%, from 1,883 people in 2024 to 1,459 people in 2026.
While the overall decrease is encouraging, the data also highlights continued system pressures. Approximately 70% of people counted were unsheltered, older adult homelessness continues to rise, and the region is seeing an increase in people experiencing homelessness for the first time. These trends indicate that continued investment in housing, prevention, diversion, behavioral health coordination, and cross-system discharge planning remains essential.
DISCUSSION:
The 2026 Homeless Census was conducted through a coordinated effort among service providers, city and County staff, community volunteers, and regional partners. The sheltered count was completed on the evening of January 29, 2026, followed by the unsheltered count during the early morning hours of January 30, 2026. More than 200 volunteers participated in the effort, helping to produce a one-night estimate of homelessness across Monterey County.
The results demonstrate meaningful progress, including a 15% decrease in overall homelessness and a 23% decrease in unsheltered homelessness since 2024. The unincorporated areas of the County experienced a particularly significant reduction of 72%, underscoring the impact of targeted encampment resolution strategies. These efforts paired viable relocation options with housing-focused, wraparound case management services, were made possible through Encampment Resolution Funding.
Other key findings include:
- Chronic homelessness declined 39%, from 820 individuals in 2024 to 500 in 2026.
- Veteran homelessness decreased 43%, from 146 veterans to 83.
- Family homelessness declined 30%, from 366 families to 255.
- Unaccompanied children and youth experiencing homelessness decreased 37%, from 225 to 141.
- Justice system involvement declined, with individuals reporting incarceration within the previous year decreasing from 26% to 19%, and those on probation or parole at the start of their homelessness decreasing from 20% to 10%.
- 60% reported that their current episode of homelessness is their first, compared to 23% in 2024.
- Nearly nine out of ten respondents (89%) were Monterey County residents when they first experienced homelessness, reinforcing that homelessness is primarily a local issue affecting long-time community members.
- 89% identified the inability to afford rent as the primary obstacle to obtaining permanent housing.
- 77% reported insufficient income or unemployment as a major barrier.
- 37% cited the rising cost of living as the leading factor contributing to homelessness
At the same time, the data confirms that homelessness remains a significant and complex challenge. Most individuals counted continue to experience unsheltered homelessness, older adult homelessness is increasing, and more people are becoming homeless for the first time. Continued investment in homelessness prevention, housing solutions, behavioral health coordination, discharge planning, and regional collaboration will be essential to sustaining progress and further reducing homelessness in Monterey County.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT/COMMITTEE ACTIONS:
Activities of the Homeless Point-in-Time Count are facilitated by the Coalition of Homeless Services Providers as the local continuum of care lead agency. This report was reviewed by County Counsel.
FINANCING:
This presentation does not have any impacts to the General Fund.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC PLAN GOALS:
Mark a check to the related Board of Supervisors Strategic Plan Goals:
__X__ Well-Being and Quality of Life - In 2021, the Board of Supervisors adopted the Lead Me Home Plan, which calls for ongoing monitoring of the County’s efforts to reduce homelessness and ensure that all residents have equitable access to well-being, stability, and quality of life.
____ Sustainable Infrastructure for the Present and Future
____ Safe and Resilient Communities
____ Diverse and Thriving Economy
Other:
____ Administrative
Link to the Strategic Plan:
<https://www.countyofmonterey.gov/home/showdocument?id=139569>
Prepared by: Roxanne V. Wilson, County Homeless Services Director, ext 5445
Approved by: Nick Chiulos, Chief Assistant County Administrative Officer, ext 5145
Attachments:
Presentation
2026 Point-in-Time Count and Report