COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) annual homeless assessment shows homelessness increased 12% in 2023.

What You Need To Know

  • Ohio's unhoused population increased almost 7%

  • Some people are experiencing homelessness for the first time

  • Ohio has allocated millions to combat homelessness around the state 

Because of inflation, and the current housing market, leaders in Ohio claim the state is seeing an increase in need.

According to HUD’s annual homeless assessment, approximately 25% of the un-housed population is experiencing homelessness for the first time. While the country saw more than a 10% increase, the most recent “point in time” data from HUD shows “Ohio’s” un-housed population increased about 7% in the last year. 

According to the Coalition on Homelessness and Housing in Ohio (COHHIO), the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment increased 18% from 2021 to 2023.

Maryhaven is a nonprofit organization that offers short term and long-term shelter for those battling mental health issues, addiction and homelessness. Leaders believe everyone can pitch in to help address the issue.

“There’s often this idea in helping and wanting people to look for and get jobs,” said Dr. Beth West, who serves as the chief clinical officer for Maryhaven. “That’s very challenging to do when the access to personal hygiene products or even to showers and things like that are not there. I think people are really looking and have a heart to help people who are un-housed. It’s important that they partner with other agencies that are already doing that work because when we’re all moving in the same direction, we can have a much bigger impact.”

Ohio is in a better position for “cost of living” rates, compared to other states. It also saw a 15% decrease in the homeless veteran population compared to 2020. Groups like Maryhaven and COHHIO think it’s important to call on legislators to allocate dollars for affordable housing, rent control and shelters.

“I hope that with inflation going down and potentially with more regulations around rental prices, that people can find more affordable housing,” said West. 

In September, Ohio was awarded nearly $5.2 million dollars from HUD to combat youth homelessness in rural parts of the state. Besides this award, Gov. Mike DeWine announced a $1.8 million grant to reduce housing barriers for human trafficking survivors. Both programs will use the money to go toward programming, education and resources. 

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