Wake County count finds 1,050 people experiencing homelessness

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- More than 1,000 people were experiencing homelessness in Wake County on a single night in January, according to new data.

The 2026 Point-in-Time Count identified 1,050 people, including 307 living unsheltered and 743 in shelters or transitional housing. That's down slightly from 1,127 people in 2025.

The count was conducted Jan. 22 during a cold-weather "White Flag" alert, when shelters expanded capacity.

Leaders say the annual count is a snapshot used to guide housing and outreach efforts.

"Behind every number is a person, a story and often a crisis that pushed someone into homelessness," said Cheryl Stallings with the Wake County Board of Commissioners. "Living outside or in unstable conditions is not safe or sustainable for anyone. The Point-in-Time Count helps us better understand the needs in our community and work towards solutions."

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