The HUD Public Housing Program provides safe, affordable housing for low-income families, adults age 50 and older, and people with disabilities. It is different from the Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) Program, which offers housing vouchers that can be used in the private rental market.

How does the HUD Public Housing Program work?

This program helps low-income older adults, families, and people with disabilities find safe and affordable rental homes. These homes can be apartments, townhouses, single-family houses, or even high-rise buildings. The government owns these homes.

About 970,000 households live in public housing across the United States. Local housing agencies (HAs) manage and maintain these homes, and HUD (the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) provides funding and support.

Rent in public housing is lower than in private rentals, making them more affordable for households living on a low or fixed income. The rent you pay is based on how much money you make—usually 30% of your income.

Please note: Depending on where you live and the amount of assistance available, you may be placed on a waiting list. Because of limited resources and high demand for housing, long waiting lists are common.

Where do you live with HUD public housing?

HUD public housing includes specific apartments, houses, or buildings that are owned and managed by local housing agencies. If you qualify for the program, you can live in one of these homes, but you cannot choose any rental home like you can with the Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) Program.

Who qualifies for HUD public housing?

You can take part in this program if:

• You are age 50 or older, have a disability, and/or have limited income.
• You are a U.S. citizen and meet the other program guidelines. Some people who are not U.S. citizens may also take part in the program. Contact your local housing agency for more information about the program's citizenship rules.
• Your income is below a certain limit:
  • Lower income limits are set at 80% of the median income for the area where you choose to live.
  • Very low-income limits are set at 50% of the median income for the area where you choose to live.

These limits vary by location, so you might qualify for HUD public housing in one area but not another. To find out if you qualify, ask your local HA.

How do I apply for HUD public housing?

If you want to apply for public housing, you need to contact your local housing agency. You can search for your local agency here by using the drop down menu or clicking on your state on the map. If you have trouble reaching your HA, contact the local field office for your area.

You must fill out a public housing application in writing (you or a housing agency worker can complete it). It may ask for the following information:

• Names, birthdates, and relationships of people living with you
• Your current address and phone number
• Special situations (like being a veteran or living in poor-quality housing) that may help you qualify faster
• Names and addresses of past landlords to check if you are a good tenant
• Your expected income for the next year and where it comes from
• Names and addresses of employers, banks, or others to confirm your income and household details

It’s a good idea to have this information ready when you apply. Make sure everything is correct—especially your contact details so you don’t miss important updates.

What happens after I apply for HUD public housing?

After you apply for HUD public housing, the housing agency will review your application. An agency worker may also do a home visit to check how you take care of your current place.

Once your application has been reviewed, they will send you a letter. If you qualify for housing, your name goes on a waiting list, unless a home is available right away. When your turn comes, the HA will contact you. If you don’t qualify, the HA must tell you why. You can ask for a hearing if you disagree.

Once you accept a home or apartment, you will sign a lease (a rental agreement). You may need to pay a security deposit. An HA worker will explain the lease so you understand your responsibilities and theirs.

Generally, you can stay in public housing as long as you want to, as long as you are income-eligible and meet lease requirements.

Who gets preference for HUD public housing?

Sometimes, certain households get priority for public housing because they need it the most. This helps the housing agency help those in greatest need.

Because many people apply for housing, the waiting list can be very long. The HA may stop accepting applications if too many families are already waiting.

Each housing agency sets its own rules for who gets priority. These rules are written in their policy manual. Ask your local HA if they have special preferences (and if you qualify for one).

How can I get help with my application?

There are multiple ways to get help applying for HUD public housing. You can:You 

• Contact your local PHA.
• Reach out to a HUD-approved housing counselor or call 800-569-4287 for free help.
• Ask a trusted family member or friend.
• Visit a Benefits Enrollment Center (BEC), if there’s one near you. See if there’s one in your area.

NCOA also has a HelpLine you can call to get free support. To get started today, call  1-800-794-6559..