Santa Cruz County Homeless Count: Resuming After COVID-19 Pause

Santa Cruz County, California, is seeing a complex shift in its homeless population, with an overall decrease in the number of people experiencing homelessness, but a notable increase within the city of Santa Cruz itself. The latest Point-in-Time (PIT) count, conducted on January 30, 2025, identified 1,473 individuals experiencing homelessness countywide – a 20% reduction from the 1,850 counted in 2024 and the lowest number recorded in the count’s history.

However, this positive county-wide trend is contrasted by a 31% increase in the city of Santa Cruz, rising from 659 people in 2024 to 862 in 2025. Nearby Capitola also experienced a significant increase, with a 42% rise from 50 to 71 individuals. Conversely, other areas within the county saw substantial declines; Watsonville’s homeless population halved, falling from 673 to 335, and Scotts Valley experienced an 84% decrease, dropping from 44 to just 7.

Understanding the Point-in-Time Count

The PIT count is a federally mandated annual census of individuals experiencing homelessness on a single night. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requires these counts at least every two years, though Santa Cruz County opted to conduct them annually after the 2021 count was skipped due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The count utilizes standardized methodology to provide a snapshot of homelessness within the community.

Robert Ratner, director of Housing for Health for Santa Cruz County’s human services department, emphasizes that the PIT count is just one tool used to understand the scope of homelessness. He notes that the numbers “tell only part of the story,” and are best viewed alongside local program data and community experience.

Countywide Progress and Persistent Challenges

Despite the increase in Santa Cruz and Capitola, the overall countywide reduction of 20% represents significant progress. The total number of people experiencing homelessness is now 16% lower than in 2023 (1,028) and 40% lower than in 2022 (1,439). This suggests that long-term efforts and investments are having a measurable impact.

The report highlights persistent challenges in helping individuals with disabling health conditions secure stable housing. Ratner stated that progress has been seen with youth, working adults, and veterans – populations benefitting from more consistent funding and community support. He indicated a need for similar commitments to address the needs of those with disabling health conditions.

Limitations of the PIT Count

Officials acknowledge inherent limitations in the PIT count methodology. It is known to undercount individuals who are not visibly homeless or who actively avoid contact. The count does not capture those temporarily doubled up with others, “couch-surfing,” or experiencing a housing crisis but not yet unsheltered. The PIT count provides a snapshot, not a comprehensive portrait, of homelessness.

Local Variations and Future Concerns

The stark differences in trends across cities within Santa Cruz County underscore the complex nature of homelessness in the region. The significant declines in Watsonville and Scotts Valley suggest that localized interventions can be effective. However, the increases in Santa Cruz and Capitola are “deeply concerning” and necessitate targeted responses.

Despite the progress shown in the 2025 PIT Count, funding for programs aimed at further reducing homelessness is at risk, including potential reductions in State Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention grant funding for cities, counties, and continuums of care. This potential loss of funding raises concerns about the sustainability of current progress and the ability to address the ongoing challenges.

The 2025 PIT Count identified 1,473 people experiencing homelessness in Santa Cruz County, a 20% reduction compared to 2024. Follow-up surveys are used to gather additional information about the population and the challenges they face. The annual survey was conducted by 85 volunteers, many of whom have experienced homelessness themselves.