Despite a 9 percent drop in homelessness, Hawaii continues to have the highest per capita rate of homelessness in the country, according to a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development report released today.

The 7,220 homeless people counted across the islands in January as part of an annual, nation-wide homeless census means that Hawaii had a rate of 51 homeless people for every 10,000 individuals across the state, according to HUD.

The District of Columbia actually had a higher rate — 110 homeless people out of every 10,000 individuals — but is not a state.

Among states, Hawaii led the country per capita, followed by New York (45 homeless people for every 10,000 individuals); Oregon and California (both had 34 homeless people per 10,000); and Washington (29 homeless per 10,000).

Planning already has begun for January’s so-called Point In Time Count that will be conducted across the islands.