Housing First Linked to Drop in Jail Bookings in New King County Data 

Jail bookings dropped by 27% in the first year for those in permanent supportive housing, according to King County’s Department of Community and Human Services 

In a new report by the King County Department of Community and Human Services (DCHS), Housing First was linked to a 27% decrease in jail bookings in just the first year. 

The analysis, which looked at 5,371 residents enrolled in adult-serving permanent supportive housing programs between 2021-2025, also found that 81% of individuals who had a jail-booking in the year prior to their enrollment in permanent supportive housing saw a personal reduction in the number of bookings after enrollment into the program. 

“This analysis comes at an important moment,” said Daniel Malone, executive director of DESC, in DCHS’ press release about the findings and published by KOMO News. “The data shows that when people have access to supportive housing with services, they experience greater stability over time. These are outcomes that benefit not only residents but the broader community as well.

“Sustaining that progress requires continued partnership and commitment across every level of government, alongside nonprofit providers and community organizations. As homelessness continues to impact communities throughout our region, it is critical that we protect and strengthen investments in supportive housing and services that help people remain housed.” 

Decades of research have consistently shown that supportive housing helps people leave homelessness, stay housed, and reduces crisis-system involvement. This data further proves that Housing First eases the strain on public systems and provides lasting stability. 

Learn more in the following articles:  

• King County data: Stable housing tied to 27% drop in jail bookings in first year 
• Housing First leads to fewer jail visits, King County data shows | The Seattle Times