HUD Section 202 Housing List & Low Income Senior Housing

HUD Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly is a federal program that funds affordable senior apartments exclusively for low-income adults aged 62 and older. Unlike a standard apartment, Section 202 communities are purpose-built for independent senior living — meaning the units, common areas, and lease terms are specifically designed for older adults who want to remain self-sufficient.

Who pays the rent? The federal government funds the operating costs directly through a Project Rental Assistance Contract (PRAC). In most Section 202 senior housing communities, residents pay 30% of their adjusted gross income toward rent, and the HUD subsidy covers the rest. This means your monthly payment rises and falls with your income, not the market.

Who qualifies? Section 202 income limits require that the head of household be at least 62 years old and that household income fall below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for the local county — though many properties serve households at 30% AMI or below. There is no requirement to be a U.S. citizen, but all household members must have eligible immigration status. Properties may also screen for rental history and certain criminal convictions.

How competitive are these properties? Section 202 senior housing properties have among the longest waitlists in affordable housing. Because residents average over 5 years of tenure, turnover is slow. The best strategy is to apply to multiple Section 202 properties simultaneously, keep your documentation updated, and check back regularly — waitlists open and close without public announcement.

How to apply for Section 202 housing: Use this directory to find every HUD Section 202 community by state, filter by city, and check current vacancy data. When you find a property that matches, contact the property directly to request an application — most properties manage their own waitlists independently of HUD.