Top Countries with the Largest Homeless Populations

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The Countries Struggling the Most with Homelessness in 2025

The global homelessness crisis remains a pressing issue in 2025, with millions of individuals living without stable shelter across the world. While homelessness can affect any country, some nations bear a disproportionately high number of people experiencing homelessness. Here’s a comprehensive look at the countries with the largest homeless populations today.

1. Pakistan — Leading the World with Over 8 Million Homeless People

Pakistan continues to face an alarming homelessness crisis, with estimates putting the number at around 8 million individuals. Rapid urbanization, economic disparities, and natural disasters have contributed significantly to this staggering figure. Many of these individuals live in makeshift dwellings or on the streets, unable to access basic services.

2. Bangladesh — Over 5 Million Living Without Stable Shelter

Bangladesh’s population density and poverty levels have made homelessness a severe problem. Around 5 million people in the country are homeless, often forced into overcrowded slums or living on the streets due to lack of affordable housing and employment opportunities.

3. Afghanistan — Nearly 4.7 Million Homeless People Amid Ongoing Conflict

Years of conflict and economic hardships have left nearly 4.66 million Afghans without homes. Internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees contribute heavily to this number, with many living in temporary shelters or in camps.

4. Nigeria and the Philippines — Each Struggling with 4.5 Million Homeless Residents

Western Africa and Southeast Asia both report homelessness figures around 4.5 million. Nigeria’s economic volatility and security issues, coupled with the Philippines’ urban overcrowding, have resulted in extensive homelessness within these nations.

5. Yemen — Over 3.8 Million in Crisis

Yemen’s ongoing war and economic collapse have caused approximately 3.86 million Yemenis to live without shelter. The humanitarian crisis is compounded by food shortages and health emergencies, making homelessness a dire reality for many.

6. Somalia and Sudan — Nearly 3 Million Homeless in Each Country

Both Somalia and Sudan are grappling with political instability and conflict, which have displaced millions. Somalia reports approximately 2.97 million homeless residents, while Sudan accounts for roughly 2.73 million.

7. China and Egypt — Major Countries With Over 2.5 Million Homeless Individuals

China, a nation with rapid urban growth, reports around 2.58 million homeless people. In Egypt, about 2 million are living without stable housing, often in informal settlements or on the streets of Cairo and other urban centers.

8. India — Nearly 1.77 Million Without Homes

Despite economic growth, India faces persistent issues with homelessness, especially in its densely populated urban centers. Around 1.77 million individuals are living in precarious conditions, many on the streets or in temporary shelters.

9. The United States — Over 650,000 Homeless People

The U.S. has seen a rise in homelessness over recent years, with roughly 653,000 individuals experiencing homelessness, including veterans, families, and youth. Urban centers like Los Angeles, New York City, and San Francisco are notable hotspots.

10. Countries with Smaller But Significant Numbers

Beyond these leading nations, many other countries report homelessness in the hundreds of thousands. For example, the UK has around 380,000 homeless individuals, while South Korea reports about 11,340. Even developed countries are not immune, highlighting that homelessness is a complex social issue transcending borders.

Visual Snapshot of Global Homelessness:

Insert Image: An impactful photo depicting street homelessness or temporary shelters, emphasizing the scale of the issue.

Factors Contributing to the Global Homelessness Crisis:

Economic Disparities: Poverty remains the primary driver, limiting access to affordable housing.
Conflict and Displacement: Wars and political instability displace millions annually.
Natural Disasters: Floods, earthquakes, and droughts destroy homes, forcing populations into homelessness.
Urban Overcrowding: Rapid city growth outpaces housing development, leading to informal settlements.

Moving Forward

Addressing homelessness requires coordinated efforts, including affordable housing initiatives, social support programs, economic development, and disaster relief. While some countries are making strides, much work remains to tackle this enduring global challenge effectively.

Sources:

World Population Review
OECD Global Homelessness Report 2020
Wiki: List of Countries by Homeless Population

Note: Data varies by country, often due to differing reporting standards and available resources. Continued research is essential to keep the public informed and guide policy decisions.