What Is Low Income Housing?

Low income housing is a perennial topic of debate among municipal and state officials, but people who have never used this government service rarely understand exactly what it is. Who is eligible for low income housing? How does it work? Who lives there? Is it all the same? This article explains a few of the common concepts of low income housing and the reasons for its existence.

Why the country needs low income housing

Shelter is one of the necessities of life, much like food and water. The government subsidizes food and water to great extent to keep prices low, so that few people in this society cannot afford them (though food banks and food stamps are still essential charitable services). Shelter is different, in that it is generally not subsidized for affordability. Some cities have such high costs of real estate that many citizens cannot afford to live within the city limits. For these individuals, governments frequently make low income housing available. These are related to, but not identical to, rent controlled apartments.

How it works

Low income housing is generally subsidized in two stages. Initial construction is one. Large apartment blocks ("the projects") are built for maximum units at the lowest cost, though more modern projects try to have some architectural appeal as well. Because upfront costs are subsidized by the government, rents can start off artificially low. The government can apply regulations to rent, so that rent is only allowed to increase at the rate of inflation (rent controlled). Even property that is built without the government is frequently rent controlled, though this is a little less common.

How do you find low income or rent controlled housing?

Most cities have low income housing available, and checking the city website is a great way to start searching. The buildings themselves are often clustered together, and found in the city center or further afield. Tread carefully though, as low income housing is frequently associated with high crime rates due to the population it attracts. This is an unavoidable risk of seeking out inexpensive housing. While these apartments can prove appropriate living space for people who have no other options, individuals who can afford better housing are well advised to spend the extra money.

Low income housing is controversial due to the crime and poverty associated with it; however, it also provides a necessity of life to individuals who would otherwise find themselves homeless. Any person who cannot afford unsubsidized apartments should look to their city for advice on finding controlled housing.

Any person who cannot afford unsubsidized apartments should look to their city for advice