Imperfect Paradise: After two years of progress, homelessness went up in LA. Why?

Imperfect Paradise: After two years of progress, homelessness went up in LA. Why?

From Norco 80 by LAist Studios

August 7, 2026 · 32 min

About this episode

This episode examines the recent increase in homelessness in Los Angeles and the implications of the latest homeless count.

Homelessness increased in Los Angeles this year following two previous years of declines, according to the recently released 2026 “point-in-time” homeless count. It’s a setback for the region, and for L.A. Mayor Karen Bass who’s touted prior declines as evidence that her approach to addressing the homelessness crisis is working. But is it really? On this episode of Imperfect Paradise, LAist reporter  Aaron Schrank examines how the count is conducted, why it matters so much, and who’s responsible for its results. UPDATE: Since recording this episode, we have learned that Rick Cole is an unpaid advisor on Nithya Raman's mayoral campaign.  Grow your business–no matter what stage you’re in. Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at SHOPIFY.COM/paradise Support for this podcast is made possible by Gordon and Dona Crawford, who believe that quality journalism makes Los Angeles a better place to live.

People in this episode

Host: Aaron Schrank

Topics covered

Keywords

Sponsors

SHOPIFY, Gordon and Dona Crawford

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: LAist Studios

More episodes of Norco 80

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Norco 80 podcast page.