Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers save American families between $500 and $1,000 every month on rent. The program is active in all 50 states, managed by HUD, and completely free to apply. Over 2.3 million households already benefit from it.
Rent Help Near You See Other Free ProgramsYou will stay on this websiteHow Much Could You Save?
The Housing Choice Voucher Program calculates your rent contribution as approximately 30% of your adjusted gross income. The government pays the difference between that amount and the Fair Market Rent for your area. Here is what typical savings look like depending on where you live:
| Area Type | Avg. Fair Market Rent | You Pay (30% income) | Government Covers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Major City (NYC, LA, SF) | $2,200–$3,000/mo | $400–$600 | $1,600–$2,400 |
| Urban (Mid-size cities) | $1,400–$1,800/mo | $350–$500 | $800–$1,200 |
| Suburban | $1,100–$1,500/mo | $300–$450 | $600–$900 |
| Rural | $800–$1,100/mo | $250–$400 | $400–$700 |
Based on a household earning $18,000–$24,000/year. Actual amounts vary by local housing authority.
What Is the Housing Choice Voucher Program?
The Housing Choice Voucher Program, commonly known as Section 8, is the largest federal rental assistance program in the United States. It is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and administered locally by approximately 3,300 Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) across the country.
Unlike public housing, the voucher program lets you choose where to live. You can rent any home, apartment, or townhouse that meets HUD quality standards and where the landlord agrees to participate. The voucher travels with you, meaning you can move to a different city or state and transfer your voucher to the new local PHA.
The program was created in 1974 and has since helped millions of families secure stable, affordable housing. In 2024, the average monthly subsidy was $1,057 per household — money that goes directly to your landlord on your behalf.
Who Qualifies for a Housing Voucher?
Eligibility is determined by your local PHA based on three main factors:
Income Limits
Your total household income must be at or below 50% of the area median income. However, by law, 75% of new vouchers must go to families at or below 30% of area median income (extremely low income). For a family of four in 2024, this typically means:
- Extremely low income: under $31,000–$42,000/year (varies by metro area)
- Very low income: under $52,000–$70,000/year (varies by metro area)
Family Composition
The program serves:
- Families with children
- Elderly individuals (62+)
- People with disabilities
- Veterans (priority in many PHAs)
- Single individuals meeting income requirements
Citizenship or Immigration Status
At least one household member must be a U.S. citizen or have eligible immigration status. Mixed-status families may receive prorated assistance.
How to Apply in 4 Steps
Step 1: Find Your Local PHA
Visit HUD’s online directory or contact your local housing authority. Each PHA manages its own waiting list independently.
Step 2: Check Waiting List Status
Most PHAs open their waiting lists periodically. Some accept applications year-round, while others open for limited windows. Check online or call your PHA to find out the current status.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Applications typically require:
- Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, benefit letters)
- Identification for all household members
- Social Security numbers
- Current housing information
Step 4: Wait for Your Turn
Once approved, you are placed on the waiting list. When your name comes up, the PHA will verify your eligibility and issue your voucher. You then have a set timeframe (usually 60–120 days) to find a qualifying rental unit.
Average Wait Times by Area
Wait times vary significantly by location. High-demand areas have longer lists, while smaller communities may process applications faster:
| Area Type | Typical Wait | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Major metros (NYC, LA, Chicago) | 2–5+ years | Lists often closed; check periodically |
| Mid-size cities | 1–3 years | Lists open more frequently |
| Suburban areas | 6–18 months | Growing availability |
| Rural areas | 3–12 months | Shortest waits, fewer applicants |
Tip: You can apply to multiple PHAs simultaneously to improve your chances. There is no rule limiting you to one application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a voucher to rent a house, not just an apartment?
Yes. Housing Choice Vouchers can be used for apartments, houses, townhouses, and even mobile homes, as long as the property meets HUD inspection standards and the landlord agrees to accept the voucher.
Will my landlord know I have a voucher?
Yes, because the PHA pays the landlord’s subsidy portion directly. However, many states and cities have laws prohibiting landlords from discriminating based on source of income, which includes voucher holders.
What happens if my income increases after I get a voucher?
Your rent portion is recalculated annually. If your income goes up, your share of rent increases proportionally — but you keep your voucher. Only if your income rises above the program limit would you eventually exit the program, and even then there is usually a transition period.
Can I move to a different city or state with my voucher?
Yes. This is called “portability.” After your initial lease period (usually 12 months), you can transfer your voucher to any PHA in the country. Some PHAs allow portability even sooner.
Is there a time limit on how long I can have a voucher?
No. As long as you continue to meet program requirements (income limits, lease compliance), you can keep your voucher indefinitely. Many families remain on the program for years while building financial stability.
Other Free Benefits Worth Checking
If you qualify for housing assistance, you likely qualify for other federal programs:
- SNAP (Food Stamps) — Up to $973/month for a family of four for groceries
- Medicaid — Free or low-cost health insurance covering doctor visits, prescriptions, and hospital stays
- LIHEAP — Help paying heating and cooling bills (average benefit: $400–$600/year)
- Lifeline — Free or discounted phone and internet service ($9.25/month credit)
- WIC — Free nutritious food for pregnant women and children under 5
This page is for informational purposes only. The Housing Choice Voucher Program is administered by local Public Housing Authorities under HUD guidelines. Eligibility requirements, benefit amounts, and wait times vary by location and are subject to change. This page is not affiliated with HUD or any government agency. Verify current terms directly with your local PHA.