Senior Housing Options — What's Available in 2026
Low-income seniors have several options: Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly provides HUD-subsidized apartments for seniors 62+. Section 8 vouchers can be used for any qualifying rental. Low-income tax credit (LIHTC) developments provide below-market rents.
For seniors who want to age at home, PACE provides comprehensive medical and support services as an alternative to nursing home care. Financial assistance for assisted living is available through Medicaid long-term services in most states.
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Affordable Rent Calculator
30% Rule
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Section 8 Voucher Estimator
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Estimate your Section 8 voucher value — usable at any qualifying apartment including senior housing.
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Benefits Match Quiz
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Senior Housing Programs — Comparison
Senior Housing Programs — Comparison
Major programs for low-to-moderate income seniors
| Program | Who It Serves | Income Limit | What You Pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section 202 | Seniors 62+ with low income | Below 50% AMI | 30% of adjusted income |
| Section 8 Voucher | All low-income (incl. seniors) | Below 50% AMI | 30% of adjusted income |
| LIHTC Properties | Low-to-moderate income | 60% AMI or less | Below-market rents |
| PACE Program | Nursing home-level care need | Medicaid/Medicare | $0 with Medicaid |
| Medicaid HCBS | Seniors needing home care | Medicaid eligible | $0–low copay |
Waitlists for Section 202 and Section 8 senior housing can be 1–5 years. Apply to all programs simultaneously.
How to Apply for Senior Housing Assistance
1
Contact Your Local PHA
Apply for Section 8 and Section 202 through your local Public Housing Authority. Ask specifically about senior preference waitlists.
Section 202 Application Guide →
2
Search for LIHTC Senior Properties
Low-income tax credit properties have income-restricted rents. Apply directly at the property.
Find Senior Apartments →
3
Check PACE Program Eligibility
PACE provides all-inclusive care for seniors who qualify for nursing home level care but want to stay in the community.
PACE Program Guide →
4
Explore Medicaid HCBS Waiver
Medicaid Home and Community Based Services waivers fund home health aides and other services to help you stay home.
Not Sure What You Qualify For?
Take the free Benefits Match Quiz — see senior housing, Medicare, SNAP, and every program available to seniors.
All Senior Housing Articles
See All →
Section 202
Section 202 Senior Housing Guide 2026 — Affordable Apartments
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Apartments
Low-Income Senior Apartments 2026 — Find Affordable Housing
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Assisted Living
Assisted Living Financial Assistance — Medicaid and Other Programs
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PACE
PACE Program for Seniors — Comprehensive Care at Home
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Waitlists
Senior Housing Waitlists 2026 — How Long and What to Do
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