Some Of Florida's Homeless Population Is Reportedly Attempting To "Live" In Some Of Its Airports

Photo byErik OdiinonUnsplash

According to Lending Tree reporting in the spring of 2023, California, New York, and Florida have the largest homeless populations in the nation.

According to the Florida Housing Coalition, in January of 2023, a point-of-time count for homelessness in Florida found around 30,000 "individuals experiencing literal homelessness" at that time. Of those, around 43% were unsheltered.

Some of those unsheltered are reportedly seeking refuge in non-traditional places in Florida - such as its airports.

The Airports Where Some Homeless Are Seeking Refuge: As far back as 2019, Florida media was reporting about the homeless seeking safety and amenities in the state's airports. According to WESH, some of Orlando's homeless were trying to blend in at the airport and make it "home."

At that time, Senior Director of Airport Operations Tom Draper told the station:

“The community does have a homeless population and I would be remiss to say that they don't visit the airport because we know that they do. If they do not have business here, they need to move on.”

To address the issue, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority reportedly provides free rides from the terminal.

WSVN reported in November of 2023 that people who are "..actually homeless... are living inside Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport."

One homeless woman, Rebecca, told the station that she "lives" in the airport because she considers it safer than the streets and shelters. She is reportedly seeking jobs but says it is challenging without a permanent address.

Finally, also in November of 2023, Axios reported that some homeless individuals have been "trying to stay" at Miami International Airport, which is prohibited.

Miami-Dade Aviation Department Communications Director Greg Chin reportedly told the publication that the Airport works with the county's Homeless Trust to offer housing and assistance. Chin explained:

"...about 30% of the individuals who are offered this assistance accept it. Those who do not accept assistance are escorted off airport property, and those who return...are issued trespass warnings, citations or placed under arrest..."

The author is not affiliated with any of the airports or organizations mentioned.