California: Where the Rent's Too Damn High (and Apparently Some Folks Can't Afford Even a Damn Tent)
Ah, California. Land of sunshine, surfboards, and...surprisingly large homeless populations. That's right, folks, paradise ain't always what it's cracked up to be.
So, how many Californians are living the #vanlife out of necessity?
The latest count, way back in January 2023 (because, you know, counting homeless people isn't exactly a daily priority), says there are over 180,000 Californians rocking the "homeless" look. That's more than a Coachella crowd, folks!
And get this: California, with only 12% of the country's population, holds the dubious honor of having a whopping 27% of the nation's homeless population. That's like being the overachiever in a class where everyone else is failing, but instead of A's, you're getting participation trophies labeled "Most Likely to Live in a Cardboard Box."
But wait, there's more! (As if the first part wasn't depressing enough)
Nearly 70% of California's homeless population sleep under the stars (or freeway overpasses). We're talking sidewalks, parks, that fancy new Prius you just can't seem to afford to live out of – you name it, it's a potential bedroom.
Here's the kicker: Even those lucky enough to snag a spot in a shelter aren't exactly living the high life. Apparently, 90% of sheltered homeless adults in California have spent at least one night unsheltered in the past six months. So, it's more like a hostel with a revolving door, except way less fun and with significantly fewer complimentary breakfasts.
So, what's the deal, California?
Well, some folks point the finger at the sky-high cost of housing. Apparently, a cardboard box on the beach isn't exactly on everyone's dream home mood board. Others blame mental illness and drug addiction, but a recent study says those factors aren't to blame as much as the sheer outrageousness of California's rent prices.
Look, we love California (mostly for the burritos), but the homeless situation is no laughing matter. Hopefully, the state can find a way to turn things around before everyone decides to take up residence on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (because let's be honest, some of those stars are already homeless – looking at you, Nicolas Cage's acting career).
