The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority announced a 57 percent decline in the number of unhoused individuals riding its buses and trains, according to the agency's 2026 annual count. The reduction is measured against the baseline recorded in 2024 and reflects the latest data collected across the Metro system.
Metro conducts yearly surveys of riders who are experiencing homelessness as part of its effort to monitor public‑safety concerns on the transit network. The counts involve staff and volunteers who observe and record the presence of unhoused passengers on buses, light rail, and subway lines throughout the county. The 2026 results represent the most recent snapshot of this ongoing monitoring program.
The agency highlighted that the 57 percent decrease signals a notable shift in the composition of riders on its vehicles. While the specific number of individuals counted was not disclosed, the percentage change underscores a measurable change over the two‑year period since the 2024 baseline. Metro officials indicated that the data will inform future planning and resource allocation aimed at maintaining safety and accessibility for all passengers.
Public‑safety officials have long used these annual counts to assess conditions on the transit system and to coordinate with city services that address homelessness. The 2026 findings will be added to the historical record, providing a benchmark for evaluating trends in the coming years. Metro plans to continue its yearly assessments, using the results to guide policies and partnerships intended to support both transit riders and the broader community.
The report comes as Los Angeles continues to grapple with housing challenges, and the Metro system remains a critical conduit for commuters across the region. By tracking unhoused rider statistics, the agency aims to maintain a safe environment while responding to the evolving needs of its diverse ridership.