Los Angeles experiences its first decline in the homeless population in years.

The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) released the results of its 2024 Homeless Point-In-Time Count on Friday, showing a positive trend for both the city and county in addressing homelessness.

The count reported 75,312 unhoused individuals in L.A. County and 45,252 in the city, reflecting decreases of 0.3% and 2.2% from the previous year, respectively.

Va Lecia Adams Kellum, CEO of LAHSA, expressed optimism, noting significant progress, particularly a 10% reduction in the city’s street homeless population—the largest drop in nine years—and a 38% decrease in makeshift shelters.

Mayor Karen Bass highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative approaches, emphasizing that this year’s count breaks a long-standing trend of increasing homelessness and marks a new direction for L.A.

The data was collected over three days in January, counting individuals living on streets, in vehicles, tents, and makeshift shelters.

Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn praised the improved shelter strategies and stressed the need for more permanent supportive housing and long-term solutions.

Coinciding with the release of the count, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that local governments can enforce bans on unhoused people sleeping in outdoor spaces. Governor Gavin Newsom supported the ruling, stating it clarifies legal ambiguities, while Mayor Bass opposed it, arguing it won’t solve the problem and shouldn’t be used to justify arrests.