Newark leads the state with the highest count, reporting 2,089 homeless individuals, based on an annual report by Monarch Housing Associates, a nonprofit that tracks homelessness across the state. Jersey City follows with 534 people without permanent housing, while Camden recorded 485 homeless individuals. In Camden, around 26% of the homeless population was unsheltered, according to a count conducted on January 23, as noted in Monarch Housing’s recent report.

In an effort to reduce unsheltered homelessness, Camden County recently unveiled plans to establish a $6 million facility at the intersection of Broadway and Liberty Street. This multi-agency center will provide social services and support for the homeless population.

In total, Camden County reported 743 homeless individuals, with 9% identified as unsheltered. Meanwhile, Burlington County had the highest homeless count in South Jersey at 1,005, though only 1% were unsheltered.

Statewide, New Jersey’s homeless population has been rising since 2022, reaching 12,680 people—a nearly 24% increase from the previous year. The unsheltered population increased to 1,389, up about 8% from 2023. Camden itself saw a 15% rise in its homeless population from 2023 to 2024, adding 65 individuals.

The report defines “unsheltered homeless” as those residing in locations not meant for human habitation, such as cars, parks, or abandoned buildings. Conversely, those staying in emergency shelters, transitional housing, or safe havens are categorized as sheltered.

The demographic breakdown shows homelessness disproportionately affects Black, non-Hispanic residents, who, though representing only 12% of New Jersey’s overall population, account for 49% of the homeless.

The primary drivers of homelessness were cited as being asked to leave a shared living space, eviction or eviction threats, and job or income loss. Among those reporting disabilities, mental health issues were most common, followed by substance use disorders and chronic health conditions. Most had been homeless for less than a year, though about 19% were homeless for one to three years, and 10% had been without stable housing for over three years.

Here is a breakdown of the ten New Jersey municipalities with the largest homeless populations: