Top Countries with the Largest Homeless Populations

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Countries with the Largest Homeless Populations in 2025

Pakistan: Top of the List with Over 8 Million Homeless Individuals

Pakistan remains at the forefront, with approximately 8 million people experiencing homelessness. Widespread poverty, housing shortages, and economic instability contribute significantly to this staggering number. The country’s rapid urbanization has strained infrastructure, leaving many without shelter, especially in major cities like Karachi and Lahore.

Bangladesh and Afghanistan: Combined Million-Plus Homeless Populations

Bangladesh follows closely behind, with around 5 million homeless residents. The country’s dense population and vulnerability to climate change exacerbate housing challenges. Afghanistan reports roughly 4.66 million homeless individuals, many displaced due to ongoing conflicts, economic hardship, and natural disasters.

Nigeria and the Philippines: Regional Leaders with Over 4 Million Homeless

Nigeria and the Philippines each face homelessness among their populations, with approximately 4.5 million individuals in dire need of shelter. Socioeconomic disparities, urban migration, and infrastructure deficits play major roles in these figures.

Yemen and Somalia: Africa and Middle East in Crisis

Yemen and Somalia suffer from ongoing conflicts and humanitarian crises, leading to nearly 4 million homeless in Yemen and almost 3 million in Somalia. Displacement, war, and food insecurity threaten millions’ access to safe shelter.

China and Egypt: Largest in Asia

China reports about 2.58 million homeless residents, mainly concentrated in urban areas and migrant worker communities. Egypt also reports over 2 million homeless, often due to economic hardship and urban overcrowding.

Other Notable Countries with High Homeless Counts:

India: 1.77 million
South Sudan: 1.54 million
Congo (DRC): 1.5 million
Iraq: 1.22 million
Zimbabwe: 1.2 million

The United States: A Developed Nation Facing Its Housing Crisis

The U.S. has approximately 653,000 homeless individuals, showcasing that homelessness isn’t exclusive to developing nations. Urban centers like Los Angeles, New York City, and Seattle grapple with persistent housing affordability issues, mental health challenges, and systemic inequalities.

European and Oceanic Countries

While Europe generally reports lower figures, countries like the United Kingdom (around 380,000), France, and Germany are not immune. Australia and New Zealand also contend with homelessness, with figures of over 122,000 and 102,000 respectively, often linked to housing affordability and social services gaps.

Emerging Trends in Homelessness

The total homeless population globally exceeds 150 million, with figures rising due to climate change, economic shifts, and conflicts.
Urban migration continues to exacerbate housing shortages in megacities worldwide.
The pandemic’s aftermath revealed gaps in social safety nets and affordable housing, fueling homelessness.

Challenges and Solutions Moving Forward

Efforts to combat homelessness involve a mix of policy reforms, community initiatives, and increased funding for affordable housing. Countries like Finland and Portugal have shown that innovative policies can significantly reduce homelessness, serving as examples for nations struggling with the crisis.

Final Thoughts

Addressing homelessness requires a coordinated global effort, emphasizing economic development, social safety nets, and sustainable urban planning. The data from 2025 underscores an urgent call for action to ensure access to safe, stable housing for all.

Sources include the World Population Review and the OECD Reports from 2020. For a detailed analysis, visit the links below.