UK Homelessness Statistics 2026

Homelessness in the UK has reached crisis levels. Over 309,000 people are living in temporary accommodation in England alone, including approximately 145,000 children. This is an increase of 13% in a single year and is at the highest level since records began.

Rough sleeping — living on the streets — is the most visible form of homelessness. The official annual rough sleeper count recorded 3,898 people sleeping rough on a single night in autumn 2024.

Temporary accommodation costs local authorities approximately £1.8 billion per year. The cost has doubled since 2019 as both the number of households and nightly rates have risen sharply.

How many homeless people are there in the UK?

Over 309,000 people are living in temporary accommodation in England. Approximately 3,898 people were sleeping rough on any given night in autumn 2024. Shelter estimates around 1 in 200 people in England is homeless.

Is homelessness getting better or worse in the UK?

Homelessness is getting significantly worse. Temporary accommodation placements rose by 13% in 2023/24. Rough sleeping has increased by over 120% since 2010.

What causes homelessness in the UK?

The main causes are: loss of private rented tenancy (section 21 evictions, around 25% of cases); family and friends no longer able to accommodate (around 20%); domestic abuse (around 12%); leaving prison, care or the armed forces.

How much does homelessness cost the UK?

Temporary accommodation alone costs local authorities approximately £1.8 billion per year. The wider cost including NHS and criminal justice is estimated at £24,000 per homeless person per year.

What is being done to address homelessness?

The Renters' Rights Bill will abolish section 21 no-fault evictions. The government has pledged to build 1.5 million homes by 2029. Local authorities have a legal duty to prevent homelessness and provide temporary accommodation.