Knoxville's housing crisis continues to escalate, prompting the Knoxville-Knox County Office of Housing Stability (OHS) to seek public input for its upcoming five-year strategic plan to address homelessness. In November, a series of public listening sessions will be held to gather community feedback from individuals impacted by homelessness, local service providers, and representatives from sectors such as education and law enforcement, according to the City of Knoxville.
The homelessness issue has become increasingly severe, with the number of people accessing homeless services rising from just over 1,000 in 2018 to 1,800 in 2024. Data from the local Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) identifies rising housing costs as a significant contributor to the crisis. Since early 2020, effective rents in the Knoxville metro area have surged by 56 percent, or $524, as reported by East Tennessee Realtors.
While housing affordability remains the primary concern, the OHS recognizes that solutions require a multifaceted approach. Critical supports such as mental health and substance abuse treatment, job training, and community-building initiatives are also essential in addressing homelessness.
The OHS invites all Knoxville and Knox County residents to participate in the dialogue on addressing homelessness. Noting the significant jump in effective rents, the OHS is exploring additional solutions beyond housing to mitigate the crisis. Public listening sessions are scheduled as follows: Tuesday, Nov. 5, 5:30-7 p.m., Powell Branch Library, 330 W Emory Road; Wednesday, Nov. 6, 5:30-7 p.m., Cedar Bluff Branch Library, 9045 Cross Park Drive; Monday, Nov. 18, 5:30-7 p.m., Burlington Library, 4614 Asheville Highway; and Wednesday, Nov. 20, 5:30-7 p.m., South Knoxville Community Center, 522 Maryville Pike.
