The 2026 Point-in-Time Count (PIT Count) started on January 26 and will run until February 6. This biennial survey of unsheltered individuals in King County aims to gather essential data on homelessness, including demographics and causes. The PIT Count is the largest assessment of unsheltered homelessness in the area, guiding policy and resource allocation.

In 2022, the King County Regional Homelessness Authority (KCRHA) adopted a new method called Respondent Driven Sampling (RDS) to improve the accuracy of the count. RDS uses peer-to-peer recruitment and a coupon system for participation, which helps reach deeper into the unsheltered community. Participants receive gift cards for their time and can distribute coupons to others.

This year, the count has expanded from 19 to 25 data collection sites, including mobile locations to cover rural areas. The survey will now include unaccompanied minors aged 13-17 to better represent youth. Results will be analyzed and released gradually, with a high-level report expected around mid-May 2026.