Homeless figures hit record high with more than 17,500 people in emergency accommodation

New figures show continued rise in homelessness, with charities urging urgent action to address housing shortages and prevent further increases.

There were 17,517 people experiencing homelessness in Ireland at the end of March, including 5,571 children, the latest figures show.

The Department of Housing’s monthly figures show an increase from 17,308 people in emergency accommodation at the end of February, and mark a rise of over 2,000 (13.6%) compared with March 2025.