Homeless deaths in L.A. County are leveling off but still nearly seven per day

Los Angeles County continues to face a critical homeless mortality crisis, with 2,508 deaths reported in 2023, a 5.6% increase from the previous year. Notably, the mortality rate among homeless individuals is 4.5 times higher than the general population. Drug overdoses, especially involving fentanyl, continue to be the leading cause of death. Improvement in mortality trends is attributed in part to increased distribution of naloxone, a medication that reverses overdose effects, although men and younger adults are disproportionately affected by these fatalities. The report indicates that while the overall increase has plateaued, challenges remain significant.

"Homeless mortality remained persistently high with an average of 6.9 deaths daily in 2023, the year covered in the most recent report."

"The rate of drug and alcohol overdose deaths fell slightly but remained the leading cause, accounting for 45% of all deaths."

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