DC homeless rate 7 times higher than regional average despite budget
Fox News has reported on the ongoing homeless crisis in Washington, D.C., as President Trump’s plan to address the issue has sparked controversy among Democrats. Despite efforts to combat homelessness, the city’s response has faced challenges in recent years.
According to a review by Fox News Digital, the rate of homelessness in the nation’s capital remains alarmingly high, with approximately 7 residents per 1,000 experiencing homelessness. This rate is significantly higher than the regional average of 1 per 1,000. While there was a slight decrease in homelessness from 2024 to 2025, the overall trend has shown a troubling increase since 2021.
The issue of homelessness has also disproportionately affected young people in D.C., with a 13% rise in single transition-age youth experiencing homelessness in 2025. Despite these concerning statistics, the city’s budget priorities have come under scrutiny for focusing more on progressive agenda items than on housing the homeless.
For instance, Washington, D.C. allocated $17 million more taxpayer dollars to treat illegal immigrants “humanely” than it did to renovate homeless shelters in the Department of Health Services system. The city’s budget also includes significant spending on various progressive initiatives, such as reversing defunding of climate commitments, supporting World Pride events, and constructing LGBTQ+ community centers.
Criticism has been directed at city leadership for demanding budget cuts to homeless services, leading to a decrease in available beds for the homeless since 2021. President Trump’s decision to federalize resources to combat crime and homelessness in D.C. has further polarized opinions, with the administration adopting a no-tolerance policy for homeless encampments as part of beautification efforts.
Protests against Trump’s intervention have erupted in the city, with Democrats voicing opposition to the president’s actions. Fox News Digital interviewed several homeless individuals in D.C., revealing mixed reactions to the changes. While some supported Trump’s efforts to address the homeless crisis, others expressed concern and questioned the authority behind the cleanup initiative.
As the debate over homelessness in Washington, D.C. continues, it remains a complex issue that demands attention and effective solutions from city officials. Fox News Digital will continue to monitor developments in the situation and provide updates on the ongoing efforts to address homelessness in the nation’s capital.
