Richmond unhoused population has doubled since 2020, report says

A City of Richmond report says the number of unhoused people in the city has more than doubled since 2020, rising from 85 to 175. The report, presented to council on July 27, points to affordability as the main factor behind the increase. Local outreach workers said many people they meet have recently lost housing after eviction or relationship breakdowns. One Richmond resident interviewed for the story said rising rents left him without an affordable place to stay. The report also shows changes in who is experiencing homelessness in Richmond. Women now make up a larger share of the unhoused population, and the proportion of seniors has also grown. About 60% of unhoused residents have lived in Richmond for at least 10 years. The city’s rent data offers mixed context: average purposebuilt rents in Richmond edged down slightly in 2025, while vacancy rates increased. Still, a housing researcher said rents remain too high for many households, and local officials say more affordable housing is needed. The provincial housing ministry said new affordable homes are being delivered and more are underway, but city advocates say the response is not enough.