2026 Point-In-Time Count Results
The annual Point-in-Time Count is a federally mandated census of people experiencing homelessness, conducted on a single day in January in Columbus and Franklin County, in accordance with HUD guidance. This year's point in time count was conducted on January 22, 2026.
Community Shelter Board (CSB) coordinated the effort in collaboration with the Continuum of Care, a 41-member planning body committed to ending homelessness across the region.
300+ Volunteers
mobilized to support this community-wide initiative.
This was the highest number of volunteers historically recorded for the count, surpassing the more than 250 volunteers recorded last year.
Point-in-Time Counts are conducted nationwide in partnership with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The counts serve as a critical tool for understanding the scope and nature of homelessness in local communities and informing system-level planning and resource allocation.
January 2026
Point-In-Time Count
Homelessness increased by 1.2%
This continued the upward trend from the 7.4% increase recorded last year.
Sheltered Homelessness
decreased by 8%
Family Homelessness
decreased by 3.8%
Unsheltered Homelessness
increased by 43%
The increase in unsheltered homelessness is consistent with the modeling provided by Focus Strategies in the 2024 Community Assessment. Their modeling predicts a 68% increase in unsheltered homelessness by 2028 unless there are additional investments in single adult diversion, rapid rehousing, and permanent supportive housing.
Demographic Groups
Various demographic groups were affected by homelessness, each with distinct vulnerabilities and needs.
Gender
All Gender demographics remained virtually unchanged.
Race/Ethnicity
Race/Ethnicity remained similar, with a 4% increase in individuals reporting Multi-Racial and a 2% decrease in individuals reporting Hispanic or Latino ethnicity.
Single Adults
increased by 2.2%
Unaccompanied Youth
Ages 18-24 decreased by 23%
Parenting Youth
decreased by 40%
Unaccompanied Youth
under age 18 decreased by 64%
Chronic Homelessness
increased by 16.4%
Severe Mental Illness
increased by 42%
Chronic Substance Use
increased by 53%
Survivors of Domestic Abuse
increased by 32%
Veterans
decreased by 1%
HIV/AIDS
increased by 75%
Previous Results
January 2025 Point-in-Time Count: Full Report | Press Release (PDF)
January 2024 Point-in-Time Count: Full Report (PDF) | Press Release (PDF)
January 2023 Point-in-Time Count: Press Release (PDF)
