Urban homelessness is an escalating crisis affecting cities around the world, driven by a complex mix of economic, social, and policy-related factors. Rising housing costs, stagnant wages, mental health issues, and lack of affordable healthcare have pushed many individuals and families onto the streets. In rapidly growing urban areas, gentrification and limited public housing options only worsen the situation, displacing low-income residents and deepening inequality. Homelessness isn’t just a lack of shelter—it’s often accompanied by unemployment, isolation, and vulnerability to violence, addiction, and chronic illness. While many cities have implemented shelters and outreach programs, these often serve as temporary fixes rather than long-term solutions. Critics argue that punitive measures like anti-loitering laws criminalize the homeless rather than help them. Addressing homelessness effectively requires a shift toward housing-first policies, improved access to social services, and more inclusive urban planning that prioritizes human dignity. It is not merely a housing issue but a reflection of broader systemic failures, and solving it will require coordinated action from governments, communities, and individuals.