By using the 3 PIT counts data, we lay the framework for conducting this type of analyses consistently across time since the data are collected annually (or bi-annually, in the case of the street count component of the count). [...] The latter approach focuses on macro- level explanations, which appeals to the understanding that, in order to examine the reasons for the variation in the pattern of regional levels of homelessness, the social, economic, and institutional threads that makeup regions must be attended to. [...] The variable comes from the Metropolitan Statistical Area dataset of the Homelessness Research Institute at the National Alliance to End Homelessness and is 7 based on PIT counts data reported by Continua of Care (CoC) homeless assistance systems to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and is for the year 2011. [...] Poverty: This variable measures the share of the population that is below the poverty line. [...] Unemployment: This is a measure of the unemployment rate: that is, the share of the labor force without an employment.