Public Housing and Housing Vouchers

The federal government provides affordable housing to over 2 million low- and very low-income families, seniors, and people with disabilities through two main programs: public housing and housing vouchers. Administered by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and managed locally by public housing agencies (PHAs), these programs help eligible residents keep their monthly housing costs at or below 30% of their adjusted income. Together, they form the backbone of America’s commitment to providing safe, decent, and affordable rental homes to those who need them most.

Public Housing

Public housing provides affordable rental units owned and operated by local public housing agencies. About 1 million households live in public housing, with units ranging from single-family homes to high-rise apartments. To qualify, your income must not exceed 80% of your area’s median income, and at least 40% of new residents must be extremely low-income. PHAs manage day-to-day operations, and HUD building inspectors conduct regular inspections to ensure units meet safety and quality standards. The federal government provides funding through capital funds for maintenance and modernization, plus operating funds to cover the gap between what residents pay and actual operating costs.

Housing Vouchers and Rental Assistance

Housing vouchers give eligible low-income renters the flexibility to choose their own home in the private market. The Section 8 program, created in 1974, is the largest voucher program, serving nearly 2 million people. Vouchers can be tenant-based, allowing you to use your voucher with any landlord who participates, or project-based, tied to specific properties. In either case, you typically pay 30% of your income toward rent and utilities, and HUD covers the rest directly to your landlord. Specialized programs like the Emergency Housing Voucher program assist people experiencing homelessness, at-risk of homelessness, or fleeing domestic violence, while the Family Unification Program helps youth aging out of foster care.