Latest Point-in-Time Homeless Count shows a continued decline in Tempe’s homeless population

Among the top city investments is purchasing two motels for bridge shelter. The newest shelter will open in the coming year and expand capacity, with 52 rooms that can be used at dual occupancy when needed. Once open, the existing Sue's Espacio shelter location will be used for future affordable housing.

Regional numbers holding steady
Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) oversees the regional Point-in-Time count each January. This year's regional numbers are holding steady year over year, but they still remain higher than two years ago, according to MAG. Though regional numbers are near their highest levels since 2019, several positive trends are emerging, including a rise in the number of people in shelters.

The 2025-2026 survey shows:

• Total PIT Count: down 0.10%
• Unsheltered Count down: 12%
• Sheltered Count up: 14%

"We are encouraged to see the numbers across the region holding steady, even as national trends such as a lack of affordable housing, high rental costs, limited access to services such as mental health care and disruptions to SNAP benefits contribute to the number of homeless people in our region," said Jacqueline Webster, Community Health and Human Services Deputy Director.

The regional count is a comprehensive effort to determine how many unsheltered people live in Maricopa County, with each city conducting its own count. Results will be used to apply for federal funds that support homeless assistance programs in the region. Those funds are an essential and consistent source of funding for the community.

Tempe also conducts its own summer count, scheduled for July this year. Since summer 2022, the number of unsheltered people in Tempe has dropped from 515 to 277 in 2025, a 46% reduction.

In addition to the Point-in-Time counts, Tempe relies on data from other sources, such as the regional Homeless Management Information System, to ensure more accurate trend analysis and measure the effectiveness of programs and services.