A Guide to the Most Accessible Low Income Housing Programs

Low-income housing programs are helping Americans find safe, affordable places to live. With housing costs steadily rising in many areas, these government initiatives help more than 10 million low-income households in the U.S. who would otherwise struggle to secure a roof over their heads.

These programs are not just about providing a place to stay; they offer stability, which is key to improving overall well-being. When people have access to affordable housing, they can better manage their finances, focus on career growth, and provide a stable environment for their families. Without this support, many would face the harsh reality of homelessness or substandard living conditions.

We’ll tell you all about the most popular low income housing programs that are available nationwide, plus some state-based programs that’ll give you an idea of what might be available locally.

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What are Low Income Housing Programs?

Low-income housing programs in the U.S. provide affordable housing options for individuals and families who earn below a certain income level. Funded primarily by the federal government, these programs aim to bridge the gap between what low-income households can afford and the actual cost of renting in the private market. State-based programs often supplement these federal efforts, ensuring wider access to affordable housing.

These programs range from government-owned properties where rent is capped based on income to rent assistance vouchers that can be used in private housing. Eligibility is generally based on a household’s income relative to the area median income (AMI) or the federal poverty level (FPL). For example, in 2024, the federal poverty level for a family of four is $30,000 annually. Most programs target households earning between 30% and 80% of the AMI, with some focusing on those making less than 50%.

Federal Low Income Housing Programs

Public Housing Program

The Public Housing Program provides government-owned housing units where rent is capped based on income. These units are managed by local Public Housing Authorities and offer affordable rent to low-income households.

Who is eligible? Families earning 30% or less of the AMI, which is often considered “extremely low income.” For example, in a city with an AMI of $60,000, a household earning $18,000 or less per year would qualify. This would be about 60% of the federal poverty level for a family of four.
How much can you receive? Rent is generally set at 30% of your adjusted gross income. For a family of four earning $20,000 per year, rent could be around $500 per month.
Where is it available? Public housing is available nationwide, with local availability depending on your region.

Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8)

Section 8 is a voucher program that helps low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities afford private market rentals. The program allows recipients to pay a portion of their income toward rent, with the government subsidizing the rest.

We have a LOT MORE to say about how to sign up for Section 8.

Who is eligible? Families earning less than 50% of the AMI. In a region where the AMI is $60,000, a family earning $30,000 or less per year would qualify. This income level is about 100% of the FPL for a family of four, or just above it.
How much can you receive? The voucher generally covers rent above 30% of your income. For instance, if a family earns $24,000 annually (around 80% of the federal poverty level), they would pay $600 per month, and Section 8 would cover the remainder of the rent for a unit costing $1,200.
Where is it available? Section 8 vouchers are available across the U.S., although waiting lists can be lengthy in some areas.

Project-Based Rental Assistance (PBRA)

PBRA connects rental help to specific housing properties, so the financial assistance stays with the building, not the tenant. This program is meant for families with very low or extremely low incomes.

Who is eligible? Households earning 50% or less of the AMI. In areas where the AMI is $60,000, families making up to $30,000 annually (100% of the FPL for a family of four) can qualify.
How much can you receive? Rent is capped at 30% of a tenant’s income. For a family earning $28,000 per year (roughly 93% of the FPL), rent would be around $700 per month, with the government covering the remainder of the rent for a unit priced at $1,400.
Where is it available? PBRA units are located across the country, though availability varies depending on the region.

Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC)

The LIHTC program offers tax incentives to private developers to create affordable housing for low- and moderate-income families. While this program doesn’t provide direct rental subsidies to tenants, it increases the availability of affordable units.

Who is eligible? LIHTC housing is targeted at households earning up to 60% of the AMI. In a city with an AMI of $70,000, a household earning $42,000 or less would qualify. This is around 140% of the FPL for a family of four.
How much can you receive? Rents in LIHTC units are generally set at 30% of the household’s income. For a family earning $35,000 per year, rent would be around $875 per month.
Where is it available? LIHTC units are available nationwide, though the number of units varies significantly by area.

State-Based Low Income Housing Programs

In addition to federal programs, many states offer their own low income housing initiatives. These programs often supplement federal housing efforts and provide additional support for residents.

Massachusetts: The Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program provides rent subsidies to low-income households, with tenants typically paying about 30% of their income toward rent. For a family of four earning $35,000 a year, this might be around $875 per month. The program is available throughout the state.
New Jersey: The State Rental Assistance Program (SRAP) helps low-income households, seniors, and individuals with disabilities by covering the difference between their income-based rent contribution and the actual rent. For a family of four earning $28,000 annually, this might mean paying around $700 per month. The program operates statewide.
California: California’s Housing and Community Development Programs offer rental assistance to low- to moderate-income households, capping rent at about 30% of their income. For a family earning $40,000 a year, this would be around $1,000 per month. These programs are available throughout the state, with different options for various regions.
Washington: The Washington State Housing Trust Fund provides affordable housing for low-income residents, including those with special needs or facing homelessness. Rent is typically set at 30% of the household income. For a family of four earning $27,000 a year, this could be about $675 per month. The program is available across the state.