Preliminary results from the 2026 Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count show 44 people experiencing homelessness in Malibu — 33 individuals and 11 vehicles, including cars, vans, and RVs. The count was conducted Thursday, Jan. 22, by city staff, the city’s Homeless Outreach Team, the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), and community volunteers.
The continuing decline in homelessness reflects Malibu’s proactive approach to addressing the issue through coordinated outreach, housing placement, and encampment management. Since contracting homeless outreach services in 2017, the city has steadily expanded efforts to assist people experiencing homelessness (PEH). The Homeless Outreach Team has facilitated numerous housing placements, helping individuals exit homelessness through permanent or interim housing and family reunification. The team made 46 placements in 2025, following 72 in 2024, 51 in 2023, 67 in 2022, and 22 in 2021.
The city also partners with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Los Angeles County Beaches & Harbors, and California State Parks to safely manage encampments. Advance notice, outreach services, and environmental cleanup are standard practice, with sites monitored to prevent re-establishment. In 2025, Malibu cleared 44 encampments, matching the total from 2024.
Since tracking began in 2016, Malibu’s homeless population has steadily declined:
- 2016 – 161
- 2017 – 178
- 2018 – 155
- 2019 – 154
- 2020 – 239
- 2021 – 157*
- 2022 – 81
- 2023 – 71
- 2024 – 69
- 2025 – 46
- 2026 – 44**
*Informal count conducted in Malibu; LAHSA count cancelled.
**Preliminary data, final numbers pending per LAHSA.
“The 2026 Homeless Count demonstrates the effectiveness of Malibu’s outreach and housing placement programs,” said a city spokesperson. “Our partnerships with The People Concern, law enforcement, and the community continue to provide meaningful support for those experiencing homelessness.”
Residents who wish to help can volunteer with local outreach organizations or assist with future homeless counts. To report an encampment or request assistance, contact Public Safety Coordinator Luis Flores at (310) 456-2489, ext. 236, or via email at lflores@malibucity.org.
For more information, updates, and resources, visit MalibuCity.org/news.