According to a recent in-depth study conducted by Boston Indicators, a research arm of the Boston Foundation, homelessness in Greater Boston is a complex issue, often shaped by factors beyond the common associations of substance abuse, mental health challenges, and/or poverty. The report suggests that while these variables do play a role, the most significant driver of homelessness in the region is the severe lack of affordable housing. Despite its robust economy, Boston struggles to provide enough housing to meet demand, leading to high rates of homelessness—second only to New York City among major U.S. cities.
One positive aspect cited by the study is that most of Greater Boston’s homeless population has access to shelters, with only 6 percent unsheltered, well below the national average of 40 percent. This strong system stands above other regions, such as the West Coast, where unsheltered homelessness is far more prevalent.
However, the system faces significant challenges. Families make up 70 percent of Boston’s homeless population, more than double the national average. Recent immigrants have contributed to a surge in family homelessness as well.
The Boston Indicators report found that racial disparities are a significant factor, with Black residents being disproportionately affected. Despite comprising just 8 percent of Greater Boston’s population, they account for 52 percent of its unhoused population. Youth and female homelessness further complicates the crisis. Youth under the age of 18 experience homelessness at the highest rates, accounting for 31 percent of the homeless population. Females also experience homelessness at slightly higher rates than males, reflecting the high rates of family homelessness in the region.
Despite these challenges, Greater Boston has achieved notable successes in combating homelessness. The region has a comparatively low rate of chronic homelessness. Nationally, 22 percent of the homeless population is chronically homeless, compared to only 9 percent in Greater Boston. This success is attributed to Massachusetts’ right to shelter law and robust support systems, such as permanent supportive housing that provides on-site health, job training, and behavioral health support. Additionally, Greater Boston has seen a significant decline in veteran homelessness, with a 62 percent reduction from 2011 to 2023 due to effective programs designed to prevent and quickly re-house veterans.
As housing shortages persist, the need for low-cost housing remains critical. Recent state restrictions on shelter services, including capping the number of families receiving shelter and implementing time limits, may exacerbate homelessness, particularly among those with limited resources.
Greater Boston’s homelessness crisis underscores the urgent need for affordable housing solutions and continued support for vulnerable populations. Lend A Hand Society plays an important role in the Greater Boston safety net system keeping families and individuals safe and stable in their housing, preventing homelessness.