The situation of homeless people in Lyon and the Rhône region continues to worsen. In 2025, 3,283 people were recorded as living on the streets in the department, according to the report presented this Friday, October 30th by Alynéa – Samu Social 69. That's 75% more than in 2021. And 2026 figures show no signs of improvement.
Between January 1st and October 15th, 2026, the association's outreach teams encountered 2,179 distinct individuals, including 217 children and 53 babies under one year old. Over the same period, the number of people encountered increased by 85% compared to 2021.
Children and families among those living on the streets
Behind these figures lie particularly concerning realities. The 2025 report notably records 524 homeless children, 485 young people aged 16 to 25, and 151 people over 60. The association notes equally
identified 14 deaths of homeless people over the course of the year.As the Cold Weather Plan launch approaches, organizations are sounding the alarm over the saturation of emergency services. The 115 hotline has recorded more than 5,000 reports, while available shelter beds remain insufficient to meet needs. For Alynéa, the picture is crystal clear: the situation has reached a critical point. As temperatures begin to drop in Lyon, the question of providing shelter for the most vulnerable people has become more urgent than ever.
Source: Lyon Capitale, BFM Lyon and Rue 89