That’s actually a really common misconception. A lot of unhoused people in LA have one or more jobs. One survey I saw put that number over 65%.
And the jobs are probably stealing catalytic converters, stripping copper from light poles, etc.
The homeless in California are on drugs and mentally ill. If they’re not, there are plenty of programs to support them, but if you’re on drugs then yeah you’re never gonna afford rent here… you can’t afford to be a junkie and afford rent on an apartment.