Factors Influencing State-Level Variations in Homelessness During the COVID-19 Pandemic - Summary - MDSpire

Factors Influencing State-Level Variations in Homelessness During the COVID-19 Pandemic

  • By

  • Margot Kushel

  • April 6, 2026

  • 0 min

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Objective:

To examine factors associated with annual state-level changes in rates of homelessness in the US between 2019 and 2021.

Key Findings:
  • Eviction moratoria were associated with a 0.36-percentage point decrease in overall homelessness for each 1% of person-time covered.
  • Climate-related events led to a 1-percentage point increase in homelessness for each home-equivalent lost per 10,000 people.
  • No significant associations were found between immigration, unemployment, or drug overdoses and overall changes in homelessness, although drug overdoses were linked to unsheltered homelessness.
Interpretation:

The findings indicate that eviction moratoria and climate emergencies significantly influence homelessness rates, suggesting that policymakers should consider these factors when developing strategies to reduce homelessness during crises.

Limitations:
  • The study did not account for differential state and local spending, which may affect homelessness rates and could lead to an underestimation of the impact of policies.
Conclusion:

Policymakers can utilize eviction moratoria and strategies to address climate-related disasters to mitigate homelessness, especially during economic downturns, by ensuring adequate funding and support systems are in place.

Original Source(s)

Factors Influencing State-Level Variations in Homelessness During the COVID-19 Pandemic

  • by Margot Kushel

  • April 6, 2026

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