Florida was ranked seventh in the United States for states with the highest percentage of vacant homes that are used seasonally, according to a new study by Compare the Market, a price-comparison website.<\/p>\n
It analyzed data and found a trend across many states: A large portion of vacant homes are used as seasonal or vacation homes, which makes it harder for residents to find permanent housing.<\/p>\n
Even though it was ranked No. 7, Florida had the highest homelessness population and number of vacant homes out of the top 10 states.<\/p>\n
Why is Florida one of the top states for vacant homes?<\/p>\n
Vacant homes: Nearly 1.49 million<\/p>\n
Percentage of vacant homes used as vacation homes: 50%<\/p>\n
People experiencing homelessness: 31,362<\/p>\n
Vacation homes for every home available rent or buy: 2<\/p>\n
Homelessness on the Treasure Coast<\/p>\n
The Treasure Coast had the highest rate of unsheltered homelessness in the country, according to the 2023 Annual Homelessness Assessment Report<\/a> to Congress.<\/p>\n Record numbers of people<\/a> are experiencing homelessness, yet there is only one emergency shelter bed for every five homeless people<\/a> on the Treasure Coast. Martin County has no beds for single, homeless adults, even as rates of homeless women and seniors rise.<\/p>\n St. Lucie County opened the Housing Hub<\/a> in 2021, which provides 24 beds for homeless men; and The Source<\/a> in Vero Beach continues to expand its Dignity Buses<\/a> for homeless adults.<\/p>\n Top 10 states for vacant homes in the United States<\/p>\n Olivia Franklin<\/a> is TCPalm\u2019s trending reporter. You can contact her at olivia.franklin@tcpalm.com, 317-627-8048 or follow her on X @Livvvvv_5<\/a>.<\/p>\n