Top Countries with the Largest Homeless Populations

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Top Countries Struggling with Homelessness in 2025

🇵🇰 Pakistan: The Nation with the Highest Homeless Population

Pakistan continues to face significant challenges with homelessness, currently estimated at around 8 million individuals. Despite numerous government initiatives aimed at affordable housing, economic hardships, natural disasters, and urban migration continue to contribute to this crisis. Many families live in makeshift shelters or informal settlements, often lacking access to basic services such as clean water and sanitation. Poverty remains the core driver, with marginalized communities bearing the brunt of the crisis.

🇧🇩 Bangladesh: Over 5 Million People Without Shelter

Bangladesh, a densely populated country, reports approximately 5 million homeless residents. Overpopulation, climate change-related flooding, and inadequate affordable housing options are key factors. Although the government has implemented housing schemes, they haven’t kept pace with the growing need. The urban poor, especially in Dhaka and Chittagong, face daily struggles trying to find safe places to live.

🇦🇫 Afghanistan: Nearly 4.7 Million Without Homes

In the wake of ongoing conflicts, Afghanistan’s homeless population has surged to nearly 4.66 million. Displacement due to violence, economic instability, and drought have exacerbated the situation. Many families live in temporary shelters under harsh conditions, often without access to basic healthcare or education, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive housing and social support programs.

🇳🇬 Nigeria & 🇵🇭 Philippines: Major Homelessness Challenges

Nigeria and the Philippines each have around 4.5 million homeless individuals. Nigeria’s economic disparities and security issues result in widespread displacement, especially in urban slums. The Philippines faces similar problems, compounded by frequent typhoons and natural disasters. Informal settlements in Lagos and Manila are characterized by overcrowding and poor sanitation, posing serious health risks.

🇾🇪 Yemen: Over 3.8 Million Internally Displaced and Homeless

Yemen’s civil war has displaced nearly 3.86 million people, with many living without homes in temporary shelters or informal camps. Food shortages, disease outbreaks, and ongoing conflict make Yemen one of the most severe humanitarian crises today. Efforts to rebuild homes are hindered by ongoing violence and economic collapse.

🌍 Global Snapshot: Countries With Significant Homeless Populations

Close behind Yemen is Somalia, with approximately 3 million homeless residents, often in refugee camps or makeshift settlements, facing food insecurity and health crises. Sudan, China, and Egypt also have sizeable homeless populations, each grappling with unique social, economic, or environmental challenges.

Note: The provided data reflects estimates from 2025, with some figures derived from varying sources, hence may differ in the year of publication.

🇺🇸 United States: The Homelessness Crisis in Wealthy Nations

While the U.S. boasts one of the world’s largest economies, it has an estimated 653,104 homeless individuals. Affordable housing shortages in cities like Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco, combined with mental health issues and economic disparities, contribute to the persistent crisis. Efforts are ongoing to expand shelter capacity and address root causes.

Impact of Homelessness on Society

Homelessness isn’t just a housing issue—it touches health, employment, education, and safety. Prolonged homelessness increases risks of chronic illness, mental health issues, and exposure to violence. Communities worldwide are seeking innovative solutions, including housing-first initiatives, increased social services, and community-based support systems.

The Way Forward: Global Efforts and Challenges

Addressing homelessness in 2025 requires a multifaceted approach—combining affordable housing, economic development, healthcare access, and social integration. International organizations, governments, and NGOs are collaborating on initiatives to improve data collection, deliver targeted aid, and implement sustainable solutions. However, geopolitical conflicts, climate change, and economic upheavals threaten progress, emphasizing that homelessness remains a complex, global challenge.

Final Note

The figures in this report have been compiled from the latest available data sources, such as the OECD, World Population Review, and humanitarian agencies. The actual numbers may vary as new data becomes available. Tackling homelessness is crucial not only for individual well-being but also for the stability and growth of communities worldwide.

Image: [Insert a representative image of urban homelessness or shelters here]

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