A recent study conducted by UC San Francisco provides insight into the causes of homelessness in California. The study surveyed approximately 3,200 homeless people. One of the main factors for most of those surveyed was the high cost of housing. There is a significant gap between rental prices and income levels. According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, an individual earning California’s minimum wage of $15.50 would need to work nearly 90 hours per week just to qualify for a modest one-bedroom rental. Additionally, MIT estimates that the living wage for an individual with no children in Sonoma County is $21.14, further emphasizing the high cost of living in California. Consequently, California is ranked as the most unaffordable state in terms of housing. The study authors say programs like rental assistance and guaranteed income can keep people off of the streets. Other factors of chronic homelessness cited in the study include trauma and poor physical health.
UCSF Study Details of Homelessness in California
