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There are some headlines that deserve more than a quick read — they deserve real recognition.
According to the most recent Point-in-Time Census conducted January 22–23, 2026, by the Miami-Dade County Homeless Trust, Miami Beach now has 93 unsheltered individuals experiencing homelessness. That is the lowest number ever recorded in our city’s history.
Let that sink in.
Just one year ago, in January 2025, the number stood at 106. Today’s figure represents a 12% decrease in just 12 months and more importantly, it continues a steady downward trend over the past two years.
While many cities across the country are seeing their homeless populations increase, Miami Beach is quietly proving that a balanced, disciplined approach can work.
The census results were shared in a February 4, 2026 Letter to Commission from City Manager Eric Carpenter to Mayor Steven Meiner and the City Commission. The count reflects collaboration between the Homeless Trust, the City’s Homeless Outreach Services Division within the Department of Housing and Community Services, Miami Beach Police Department Homeless Resource Officers, and community volunteers.
For perspective, the January census reported 1,184 unsheltered individuals countywide. Of that total, 93 were in Miami Beach. These numbers don’t happen by accident.
City leadership has emphasized what they describe as a “services first, compassion always” philosophy — pairing outreach, mental health support, and housing navigation with enforcement of anti-camping laws designed to protect neighborhoods, parks, and public spaces.
That balance matters.
Residents want compassion. They also want clean sidewalks, safe parks, and public spaces that work for everyone. The City’s strategy has aimed to deliver both — helping individuals in crisis while maintaining quality of life for the broader community.
And the results speak for themselves.
Of course, 93 is not zero. There is still work to be done. Every number represents a human being facing serious challenges. But measurable progress is meaningful, especially when many municipalities continue to struggle with rising homelessness and limited solutions.
What we are seeing in Miami Beach is not rhetoric. It is data-backed progress.
A 12% reduction year-over-year.
The lowest recorded count in city history.
A coordinated effort between outreach teams, police, housing services, and volunteers.
That is what real results look like.
Miami Beach still has challenges ahead, but today, it also has something important: momentum.
And in public policy, momentum matters.
Congratulations to Mayor Meiner and team, keep up the great work.
For any questions or comments email me at grant@cnews.net
