In 2024, homelessness and poverty remain pressing challenges in many cities across the globe. Various economic, social, and political factors, including housing shortages, unemployment, and inflation, have exacerbated the issue. Here is a look at the top 10 cities most affected by homelessness and poverty in 2024.
1. Los Angeles, USA
Los Angeles has long been associated with the issue of homelessness, and in 2024, the situation has only grown worse. Despite efforts by local government and nonprofit organizations, an affordable housing crisis and rising living costs continue to push many onto the streets. With thousands of people living in encampments across the city, LA has the largest homeless population in the United States.
2. Mumbai, India
Mumbai, one of the world's most densely populated cities, faces significant challenges with both poverty and homelessness. A lack of affordable housing, combined with a large influx of people from rural areas in search of better opportunities, has overwhelmed the city’s capacity to provide adequate shelter. In 2024, millions live in informal settlements, often without basic amenities.
3. New York City, USA
New York City has one of the largest homeless populations in the world, with shelters constantly struggling to meet the demands of thousands of people without stable housing. High rent, gentrification, and stagnant wages have worsened the housing crisis. In 2024, the city continues to grapple with the issue despite significant investment in affordable housing initiatives.
4. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
In Rio de Janeiro, poverty is a deeply entrenched issue, and homelessness is widespread. The city’s large favelas (informal settlements) house millions of people who live in extreme poverty. The economic downturn and inflation in Brazil in 2024 have further strained social services, leaving many without adequate shelter or access to essential resources.
5. San Francisco, USA
San Francisco is another U.S. city where homelessness and poverty remain critical issues. Known for its tech boom and rising wealth, the city also has a stark contrast with a growing homeless population. High rents and limited affordable housing mean that many people cannot keep up with the cost of living, leading to encampments throughout the city.
6. Manila, Philippines
Manila faces severe poverty and homelessness due to rapid urbanization and high population growth. In 2024, thousands of families live in informal settlements, often without access to clean water, electricity, or sanitation. The city’s overcrowded conditions and lack of adequate infrastructure exacerbate the problem, making it one of the hardest-hit cities in Southeast Asia.
7. Seattle, USA
Seattle's homelessness crisis has worsened in recent years due to rising housing costs and an insufficient supply of affordable homes. In 2024, many individuals and families struggle to find stable housing. The city has been increasing investments in shelter services and low-income housing, but the demand still far exceeds availability.
8. Johannesburg, South Africa
Johannesburg faces a growing problem of poverty and homelessness as unemployment remains high, and housing options remain limited. Many people in the city live in informal settlements or shantytowns without basic services, contributing to the worsening conditions in 2024. Poverty, inequality, and a lack of infrastructure further deepen the crisis.
9. Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver, known for its high cost of living, has one of the highest rates of homelessness in Canada. The housing affordability crisis has pushed many people onto the streets or into shelters. In 2024, despite efforts by the city government to create more affordable housing, homelessness continues to rise as rental prices increase faster than income levels.
10. Lagos, Nigeria
Lagos, Africa’s largest city, faces significant challenges with poverty and homelessness. Rapid urbanization has led to an influx of people from rural areas seeking better opportunities, but many find themselves living in slums and informal settlements. In 2024, the city’s infrastructure struggles to keep up with the growing population, leaving millions in extreme poverty and without adequate housing.
Conclusion
Homelessness and poverty are complex, multifaceted issues that are affecting cities across the globe in 2024. Factors such as rising housing costs, urbanization, economic instability, and inequality contribute to this growing crisis. While efforts are being made to tackle these problems, these ten cities face particularly severe challenges in providing adequate housing and resources to their most vulnerable populations.