Section 8 Housing Calculator

What is Section 8?

The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program is the federal government's major program for assisting very low-income families, the elderly, and the disabled to afford decent, safe, and sanitary housing in the private market. Participants find their own housing and use the voucher to pay a portion of the rent.

Who is Eligible?

To be eligible for Section 8, your family must meet income requirements:

• Very Low Income: 50% or below Area Median Income (AMI)
• Extremely Low Income: 30% or below AMI (priority)
• Family Definition: Single person, family with/without children, elderly, disabled
• Citizenship: U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens
• Background Check: Must pass criminal background screening

How It Works

The Section 8 program works as follows:

• Tenant Payment: You pay 30% of your adjusted monthly income
• Voucher Amount: Government pays the difference up to Fair Market Rent
• Housing Standards: Unit must meet Housing Quality Standards (HQS)
• Portability: Can move anywhere that accepts Section 8 vouchers

Fair Market Rents (2025)

Fair Market Rents vary significantly by location. Examples for 2025:

• San Francisco, CA: $3,500+ for 2-bedroom
• New York, NY: $2,800+ for 2-bedroom
• Atlanta, GA: $1,400+ for 2-bedroom
• Rural Areas: $800+ for 2-bedroom

How to Apply

To apply for Section 8:

• Contact your local Public Housing Authority (PHA)
• Apply when waiting lists are open (often limited periods)
• Provide required documentation
• Wait for your name to come up on the waiting list