ANN ARBOR, MI — A new county report reveals a significant rise in homelessness in Washtenaw County, driven in part by rising housing costs and a lack of affordable options.
Here are five key takeaways from the original article published by MLive/The Ann Arbor News.
1. Homelessness has surged since 2022
Homelessness in Washtenaw County has increased by 77% since 2022, with double-digit percentage increases over the last three consecutive years, and more people are experiencing chronic, prolonged homelessness.
2. Point-in-time count confirms upward trend
A federally mandated point-in-time count conducted in January found 373 people experiencing homelessness, a 13% increase from the 330 people counted in 2024. Officials caution this one-day snapshot underrepresents the full scope of the problem.
3. Significant racial disparities persist
The report highlights a major racial disparity among the homeless population. Black individuals account for 52% of those experiencing homelessness despite making up only 14% of the county’s general population.
4. The local increase mirrors a national problem
The rise in Washtenaw County is part of a broader trend, as homelessness grew 44% across Michigan from 2021 to 2024. During the same period, the total count across the United States more than doubled.
5. Homelessness among veterans is declining
In contrast to the overall trend, homelessness among military veterans is falling. The county’s point-in-time count documented a drop from 37 homeless veterans in 2021 to 10 in 2025.
Read the original story…