Toronto’s unhoused population reaches ‘crisis’ level, more than doubling in 3 years

Toronto’s unhoused population has more than doubled in three years, reaching an estimated 15,400 last fall, according to the city’s 2024 Street Needs Assessment homelessness survey. This marks a sharp increase from 7,300 in 2021 and reflects a growing crisis that requires a coordinated response from all levels of government. The survey attributes the rise to systemic failures in affordable housing, healthcare, mental health services, and income support.

Racialized communities remain disproportionately impacted, with 58% of the unhoused population identifying as Black and 9% as Indigenous, despite these groups making up a smaller percentage of the city’s total population. The survey also highlights a doubling in the number of 2SLGBTQ+ individuals experiencing homelessness, with refugee claimants and young people particularly affected.

While the city has seen some improvements, including a decrease in refugee claimants in shelters and more people moving into permanent housing, advocates view the report as a “devastating” wake-up call. Homelessness experts emphasize that the solution lies in affordable housing, with calls for tens of thousands of subsidized units and more comprehensive government support. The city is continuing efforts to increase supportive housing and outreach services, but experts stress the need for long-term prevention strategies and systemic change.