IHDAHousing Locator
Housing Authority Program

Public Housing

Public housing provides safe, affordable rental housing for eligible low-income families, seniors, and persons with disabilities. Housing authorities own and manage these properties.

Program Benefits

Public housing offers stable, affordable housing with support services

Income-Based Rent

Pay approximately 30% of your adjusted income

Maintenance Included

Repairs and upkeep handled by housing authority

Community Services

Access to resident programs and support services

Stable Housing

No time limits on how long you can stay

Types of Public Housing

Public housing comes in many forms to meet different needs

Family Developments

Multi-bedroom units for families with children

Senior Buildings

Age-restricted communities for elderly residents

Scattered Sites

Single-family homes and small buildings throughout the city

Mixed-Income Communities

Developments with market-rate and affordable units

Eligibility Requirements

Public housing serves the lowest-income residents in our communities:

  • Income at or below 80% of Area Median Income (most residents at 30% AMI or below)
  • U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status
  • Pass criminal background check
  • Good rental history (or valid explanation for issues)
  • Meet family composition requirements for unit size
Income Limits (2024) - 80% AMI
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin Metropolitan Area
Household SizeMax Income
1 Person$58,450
2 Persons$66,800
3 Persons$75,150
4 Persons$83,500
5 Persons$90,200
6 Persons$96,900

Note: Most residents must have income at or below 30% AMI at admission

Apply for Public Housing
Contact your local housing authority to apply or check waitlist status