San Bernardino County recorded a 3.1% decrease in homelessness this year, marking the second year of decline in a row, authorities announced Wednesday.
On April 29, county officials released the results of the 2026 Point-in-Time Count, which identified a total of 3,718 people experiencing homelessness.
The count included 2,448 individuals who were unsheltered and 1,270 who were sheltered, according to a county statement.
Unsheltered homeless in San Bernardino County decreased by 7.1%, the report found.
This year’s 3.1% decline in overall homeless population follows a 10.2% decline in 2025, officials said. Prior to that, it had increased by 1% in 2024, 26% in 2023 and 6.6% in 2022.
‘We’re proud of the progress’
San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors Chair and Third District Supervisor Dawn Rowe said she was pleased with the result, but recognized an ongoing challenge.
“We’re proud of the progress reflected in our Point-in-Time Count numbers,” she said. “Even with this decrease, we know there is still significant work ahead, and we remain committed to building on these efforts.”
The other supervisors also expressed optimism regarding the outcome.
“We’re pleased to see a continued decline in the numbers,” First District Supervisor Paul Cook said. “Thanks to state and federal funding, more people are being placed into housing, and the overall trend continues to move in the right direction.”
County officials attributed the progress to expanded outreach efforts, increased shelter capacity and investments in permanent supportive housing.
‘A snapshot of the county’s homeless population’
The annual Point-in-Time count “provides a snapshot of the county’s homeless population, which enables officials to track progress toward reducing homelessness and direct resources to areas of greatest need,” according to the county statement.
The count, which was organized in January by the San Bernardino County Office of Homeless Services, also helps officials secure grant funding to support those experiencing homelessness or at risk of facing homelessness, authorities added.
The effort includes a vast partnership of county and local agencies, service providers and community members.
Additional resources were brought in to the field this year, including a mobile team capable of connecting people with services such as emergency housing, temporary shelter and other supportive services, officials said.
OHS Chief Marcus Dillard commended those who joined in the effort.
“I want to thank all of the volunteers who participated in the annual Point-in-Time Count,” he said. “Their work made it possible to carry out a coordinated effort across the county, which resulted in more comprehensive data.”
More information on homelessness in San Bernardino Conuty can be found on the county website at sbchp.sbcounty.gov.
This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: San Bernardino Co. sees drop in homelessness for second straight year
Reporting by Brian Day, Victorville Daily Press / Victorville Daily Press
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
