Updated: Jul 22, 2025

Rent is often the largest monthly expense for individuals and families—and when housing costs rise faster than income, it can feel nearly impossible to keep up. The good news is that there are resources, programs, and strategies that can help you find lower-cost housing options, even if your income is limited or your credit isn’t perfect.

Why Affordable Housing Is Hard to Find

The demand for affordable housing is high, and availability is often limited—especially in major cities or fast-growing areas. Many households are considered “rent burdened,” meaning they spend more than 30% of their income on housing. In some cases, it can be over half of a person’s take-home pay.

At the same time, rents continue to rise while affordable units disappear or get converted into market-rate properties. But that doesn’t mean you’re out of luck. With the right approach and knowledge of where to look, you can find rental options that fit your budget and avoid scams or high-risk situations.

Start with Local Housing Authorities

One of the best places to begin your search is your local Public Housing Authority (PHA). These agencies manage government housing programs like:

Public Housing – Apartments or housing units owned by the city or housing authority, available to qualifying low-income tenants. Rent is typically capped at 30% of your monthly income.

Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) – Vouchers that help cover part of your rent in a privately owned unit. You pay the difference between what the voucher covers and the landlord’s rent.

Each PHA has its own rules, income limits, and waiting lists. Many areas have long waitlists for Section 8 or public housing, but you can often apply to multiple PHAs if you’re willing to move to another area.

To find your local office, visit hud.gov and search by state or city.

Apply to Income-Based Housing Developments

Some private landlords and nonprofit housing developers offer income-based rentals through programs like the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC). These units are not public housing, but they must rent to tenants within a certain income range.

Rent in these properties is usually lower than the area average and may include utilities. Unlike Section 8, you don’t need a voucher—you apply directly to the property manager.

You can search for LIHTC properties near you using websites like AffordableHousingOnline.com or by contacting your state housing finance agency. Many of these apartments have application deadlines or waiting lists, so it’s a good idea to start looking early.

Use Online Search Tools Carefully

While many people turn to online platforms like Zillow, Apartments.com, or Craigslist to search for rentals, you have to be careful. These sites do include legitimate listings—but also fake or outdated ones.

When using these tools:

• Set your budget filters low so you don’t waste time on overpriced listings

• Contact landlords directly to verify the details and schedule a showing

• Be cautious of listings that ask for money upfront or avoid phone calls

• Never wire money or share personal information before signing a lease

For more vetted listings, try sites like SocialServe.com or GoSection8.com (now part of Affordable Housing). These are designed for low-income renters and often include listings that accept housing vouchers or have income-based pricing.

Look for Local Nonprofit Housing Groups

Many cities have nonprofit organizations that help residents find and apply for affordable housing. These groups may own properties themselves or partner with landlords who rent to low-income tenants.

Some nonprofits also offer help with:

• Filling out housing applications

• Appealing denials or credit checks

• Understanding lease terms

• Avoiding eviction or accessing emergency rental assistance

You can usually find these groups by searching “[your city] housing assistance nonprofit” or checking with a local United Way or community action agency.

Consider Shared Housing or Room Rentals

If traditional apartments are out of reach, shared housing might be an option. Renting a room in someone’s home, splitting a larger unit with roommates, or looking for co-housing arrangements can lower costs significantly.

Websites like Roomster, Roomies, and even Facebook Marketplace often have listings for rooms in shared homes. Just be sure to ask about lease terms, privacy, and who’s responsible for utilities.

Shared housing isn’t ideal for everyone, especially families with young children, but it can be a stepping stone toward stability while you build savings or wait for a housing program to open up.

Know Your Rights as a Renter

Even if you’re struggling to find affordable housing, it’s important to know that landlords can’t discriminate against you based on race, religion, national origin, disability, family status, or gender. This protection is part of the Fair Housing Act.

If you’re using a voucher, landlords in some states are required to accept it. Others may not be—but that’s changing as more local governments add protections for voucher holders.

If you believe you’ve been treated unfairly, you can file a complaint with your local fair housing agency or contact HUD’s housing discrimination hotline at 1-800-669-9777.

Apply for Rental Assistance Programs

If you’re currently housed but struggling to stay caught up, rental assistance programs may help. These programs provide one-time or short-term help to cover rent, utilities, or security deposits.

Emergency rental assistance is often available through local government agencies, nonprofit groups, or faith-based organizations. In many areas, the 2-1-1 helpline can connect you to housing resources based on your location and situation.

You can also visit benefits.gov to check for federal programs or search for community resources on needhelppayingbills.com.

Build a Strong Application

Affordable units often receive multiple applicants, so it helps to be prepared. Keep important documents ready, including:

• Recent pay stubs or proof of income

• A list of previous addresses and landlord contact info

• Photo ID and Social Security number

• Bank statements or proof of public benefits

• Letters of recommendation, if available

If you have a low credit score or rental history issues, be upfront about it and offer an explanation. Some landlords are willing to be flexible if you can demonstrate reliability in other ways.

Stay Persistent and Organized

Finding affordable housing takes time. Waiting lists can be long, and not every application will lead to a lease. But staying organized can make the process smoother.

Keep a spreadsheet or notebook of where you’ve applied, what documents you submitted, and any follow-up dates. Check your email and voicemail regularly in case a property manager reaches out. And keep copies of your applications in case you need to apply again elsewhere.

Ask about reapplying if you’re denied, or request to be added to a waitlist. Some properties fill quickly but call applicants back when units open up again.

Final Thoughts

Affordable housing is hard to find, but it’s not out of reach. Whether you’re applying for public housing, searching for income-based rentals, or working with a nonprofit, knowing where to look and how to prepare can help you find a safe, stable, and affordable home. With persistence and the right tools, you can make progress toward better housing—even on a limited budget.