New findings from the Utah Women & Leadership Project in partnership with Utah State University shed light on worsening homelessness trends across Utah and the United States. The research closely examines how many women experiencing homelessness are affected, how those numbers are changing, and the key reasons behind housing loss.
National Homelessness Trends Show Faster Growth Among Women
Although men still represented about 60% of the homeless population nationwide in 2024, researchers warn that women’s homelessness is increasing at a faster pace.
According to the report:
- In 2024, 18 out of every 10,000 women experienced homelessness nationwide, up from 13 per 10,000 in 2020
- For men, the rate rose from 22 per 10,000 in 2020 to 28 per 10,000 in 2024
- From 2023 to 2024, homelessness among women increased by 19%, compared to 15% among men
These numbers highlight a widening risk gap that places women at increasing vulnerability.
Utah Sees Steady Rise in Women Experiencing Homelessness
While Utah’s increase is smaller than the national trend, the upward movement is still concerning.
- In 2023, Utah recorded 1,385 women experiencing homelessness
- By 2024, that number increased to 1,420, marking a 3% rise
- The share of unsheltered women increased from 18% in 2023 to 18.8% in 2024
The report also confirms that homeless services continue to serve more men than women, both in Utah and nationwide.
Women and Children Make Up a Large Share of Utah’s Homeless Population
In 2025, a total of 30,578 people accessed homeless services in Utah.
Key breakdowns include:
- Women accounted for nearly 42% (12,823 individuals), up from 39% in 2021
- 27.3% of homeless women (3,503) were under the age of 18
- This represents a 4.3% increase in homeless girls since 2021
- 4,454 women were sheltered, while 1,325 women were unsheltered
- 6,478 women lived in households with adults and children
- 161 were unaccompanied girls
These figures emphasize how women, children, and families are deeply affected by housing instability.
Barriers Preventing Utah Women From Securing Stable Housing
The research outlines several health-related and social challenges reported by women seeking homeless services in 2025:
- Mental health disorders: nearly 23%
- Chronic health conditions: 18.4%
- Physical disabilities: 13.9%
- Developmental disabilities: 10.2%
- Substance use issues: 7.6%
- HIV or AIDS: 0.5%
Additionally, 1,103 women (8.6%) reported experiencing domestic violence, with 329 women (2.6%) actively fleeing abusive situations.
High Housing Costs Driving Homelessness Across Utah
Researchers identify Utah’s rising rent and home prices as one of the most significant contributors to homelessness growth.
The report strongly recommends:
- Making housing affordability a top policy priority
- Expanding rental assistance programs
- Encouraging zoning reforms and housing developments that support cost-burdened households
- Directing funding toward women, children, seniors, veterans, and racial minorities
Urgent Call for Policy Action and Support Services
Beyond housing, the study stresses the importance of mental health services and substance use disorder treatment to help individuals secure and maintain long-term housing stability.
Researchers warn that many Utah families are on the brink of homelessness, as financial pressures—especially housing costs—continue to escalate.
