Singapore recently completed a street count identifying 496 individuals experiencing homelessness in mid-July 2025. The count, detailed in a newly released government report, represents a 6.4 percent decrease from the 530 people identified in a similar count conducted in 2022.
Understanding ‘Rough Sleepers’
The Ministry of Social and Family Development defines “rough sleepers” broadly, encompassing individuals utilizing public spaces for sleeping regardless of their housing status. This includes those without housing, as well as individuals with a home who face barriers to returning to it.
Demographic Insights
The 2025 count revealed a significant demographic trend. Eighty-five percent of those identified as rough sleepers were male, and over half were aged 50 or older. This data was gathered alongside a survey conducted from July to August 2025, designed to understand the circumstances leading to individuals sleeping outdoors.
Reasons for Sleeping Rough
The reasons cited for sleeping rough in 2025 mirrored those reported in 2022. Nearly half of those surveyed reported disagreements with family, friends, or co-tenants as a contributing factor. Twenty-nine percent cited difficulties securing or maintaining housing, and 20 percent attributed their situation to financial issues.
The Ministry noted that a lack of housing is not always the primary driver of homelessness, stating, “Rough sleeping is not always driven by a lack of housing options.” The survey indicated that 47 percent of respondents reported having a residence they could return to.
Employment and Health
The survey also revealed that approximately two-thirds of respondents were employed, primarily in lower-income positions. Furthermore, nearly half reported experiencing a medical condition or disability.
It is possible that future reports could show continued declines in the number of identified rough sleepers, depending on the effectiveness of existing social programs and economic conditions. Further analysis may be needed to understand the long-term trends and the specific needs of this population. A possible next step for the Ministry could be to investigate the types of medical conditions and disabilities reported by respondents to better tailor support services.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the definition of a “rough sleeper” used in this report?
The Ministry of Social and Family Development defines “rough sleepers” as individuals sleeping in public spaces, regardless of their housing circumstances, including those who have no homes as well as those who have homes but face difficulties returning to them.
What was the most common reason cited by respondents for sleeping rough?
Nearly half of the respondents cited disagreements with family members, friends or co-tenants as the reason for sleeping rough.
What percentage of those identified as rough sleepers were employed?
About two-thirds of respondents were in some form of employment, mostly in lower-income jobs.
What factors contribute to homelessness in Singapore, and how might these insights inform future support efforts?
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