Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the difference between HUD housing and Rural Development housing?

HUD housing is funded and managed through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Rural Development (RD) housing is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and focuses on smaller towns and rural areas. Both programs help people afford rent, but HUD usually serves cities and larger towns, while RD serves rural communities.

How is rent calculated for affordable housing?

Programs like HUD or Rural Development use your household income, family size, and certain deductions (like medical expenses or child care) to figure out what you can afford.

What does “income-based rent” mean?

Income-based rent means your rent amount is tied to how much you earn. Usually, you pay about 30% of your adjusted monthly income, and the government covers the rest.

What does “low income” mean — how do they decide if I qualify?

Each county has income limits based on the average income in that area. HUD updates these every year. If your household makes less than those limits, you may qualify for housing help.