More Santa Clara County residents report first-time homelessness - San Jose Spotlight
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More Santa Clara County residents report first-time homelessness - San Jose Spotlight
"There are a record 10,711 homeless people living in the county this year, according to a count conducted in January. The county surveyed 1,534 homeless people during that time and 58% reported being newly homeless, according to recently released data. That's almost double the 34% of people who reported being homeless for the first time during the previous count in 2023."
"Only three cities in the county - San Jose, Los Gatos and Mountain View - have rent control policies, with limitations. San Jose caps rent increases at 5% annually, but only covers homes built and occupied before 1979, which is approximately 38,000 apartments. Los Gatos caps it to 5% or 70% of the Consumer Price Index, whichever is higher, and Mountain View caps it to 100% of the CPI. Duplexes are exempt from rent control in all three cities."
"County data shows more people are staying homeless for longer. In 2017, 2,097 individuals had been chronically homelessness, compared to 4,650 people in 2025. Someone who has been homeless for at least a year is considered to be chronically homeless. People who have been homeless at least four times within the last three years also fall into the federal definition of chronic homelessness. The number of chronically homeless people living in shelters has increased 56% since 2023, according to the county."
There are a record 10,711 homeless people living in Santa Clara County this year, with 1,534 surveyed and 58% reporting they are newly homeless, up from 34% in 2023. The primary reported causes are job or income loss (27%), divorce or breakups (17%), and eviction or rent increases (12%). Only three county cities have limited rent control, leaving many renters vulnerable. Chronic homelessness has more than doubled since 2017 to 4,650 people in 2025, and the number of chronically homeless people in shelters rose 56% since 2023. Many people are staying homeless for longer periods.
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