San Francisco’s high cost of living makes affordable housing a vital resource for many residents. This guide provides a step-by-step process to apply for affordable housing, covering eligibility, application methods, required documents, and available support.
What is Affordable Housing?
Affordable housing in San Francisco refers to rental or ownership housing where costs do not exceed 30% of a household’s income, typically for those earning up to 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI). Programs include Below Market Rate (BMR) rentals, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers, public housing, and community-managed properties. These initiatives aim to make housing accessible for low- and moderate-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities in a city where housing costs are among the highest in the nation.

Eligibility for Affordable Housing
Eligibility varies by program, but common requirements include:
- Income Limits: Your household income must be at or below a specific percentage of the AMI. For 2025, examples include:
- 50% AMI: $54,150 for a one-person household, $77,350 for a four-person household.
- 80% AMI: $86,650 for a one-person household, $123,800 for a four-person household.
- Residency: Some programs prioritize San Francisco residents or those with a local connection, such as employment in the city.
- Family Size: The number of bedrooms you qualify for depends on your household size.
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen or have eligible immigration status.
- Additional Criteria: Certain programs target specific groups, such as seniors, veterans, or individuals with disabilities.
Household Size | 50% AMI (2025) | 80% AMI (2025) |
---|---|---|
1 Person | $54,150 | $86,650 |
2 Persons | $61,900 | $99,050 |
3 Persons | $69,650 | $111,450 |
4 Persons | $77,350 | $123,800 |
5 Persons | $83,550 | $133,700 |
Always verify specific eligibility requirements for each program, as they can differ significantly.
How to Apply for Affordable Housing
San Francisco offers multiple pathways to apply for affordable housing, each with its own process. Below are the primary methods:
1. Housing Lottery
Many BMR units are allocated through a lottery system managed by the DAHLIA San Francisco Housing Portal. Here’s how to apply:
- Step 1: Visit the DAHLIA portal to check for open lotteries.
- Step 2: Create an account on the portal.
- Step 3: Submit your application during the lottery period, ensuring all required information is complete.
- Step 4: Wait for lottery results. If selected, you’ll be contacted to proceed with further steps, such as document submission.
Note: The San Francisco Housing Authority (SFHA) waitlist lottery closed on May 21, 2025. Check SFHA’s lottery lookup tool to track your application status if you applied. Monitor SFHA.org for future waitlist openings.
2. First Come, First Served
Some affordable housing units are available on a first come, first served basis, listed on SF.gov.
- Step 1: Visit SF.gov and search for “First Come, First Served BMR Rental Listings.”
- Step 2: Review available units and their eligibility requirements.
- Step 3: Submit your application promptly, as these units are filled quickly.
3. Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program
The Section 8 program, administered by the SFHA, provides rental assistance to low-income families, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities.
- Step 1: Contact SFHA at (415) 715-5200 or customercare@sfha.org to apply for the waitlist.
- Step 2: Wait for your name to be called, which may take months or years due to high demand.
- Step 3: Once selected, work with SFHA to find a qualifying rental unit in the private market.
4. Community Organizations
Nonprofit organizations like the Chinatown Community Development Center (Chinatown CDC) manage affordable housing properties with their own application processes. For example:
- 937 Clay: SRO units with rents of $600–$650, requiring a minimum income of $1,200–$1,300 and a maximum of $83,900. Applications can be picked up at 937 Clay St, Monday–Friday, 9 AM–5 PM, or downloaded online.
- Maceo May Apartments: 2-bedroom units for veteran households, with rents of $1,405–$1,716. Apply online through Swords to Plowshares.
Visit each organization’s website or contact them directly for specific application instructions and deadlines.

Required Documents
When applying, you’ll typically need:
- Proof of Income: Pay stubs, tax returns, or other income verification.
- Proof of Identity: Driver’s license, passport, or other government-issued ID.
- Proof of Residency: Utility bills, lease agreements, or other documents showing your address.
- Social Security Cards: For all household members.
- Birth Certificates: For children in the household.
Check with the specific program for any additional document requirements.
Getting Help with Your Application
Navigating the application process can be challenging, but support is available:
- Housing Counselors: Organizations like HomeownershipSF offer free counseling to review your financial history and determine eligibility.
- Community Partners: SFHA lists partners such as Catholic Charities (50 Broad Street, (415) 972-1200) and Self-Help for the Elderly, which provide application assistance.
- Online Resources: SF.gov and SFHA.org offer guides, FAQs, and tools to simplify the process.
Waiting Lists and Timelines
Due to high demand, affordable housing in San Francisco often involves waiting lists. Wait times can vary:
- Lottery Waitlists: May take months to years, depending on the number of applicants and available units.
- First Come, First Served: Units fill quickly, so prompt application is crucial.
- Section 8: Waitlists can be lengthy, often several years.
Update your contact information regularly with the program to avoid missing notifications.
Recent Updates and Future Plans
As of July 2025, San Francisco is making strides to address the housing crisis:
- New Developments: Two affordable housing communities broke ground in the Fillmore District in June 2025, adding 167 homes for low-income families and educators (SF.gov).
- Preservation Efforts: A $52.6 million investment by FHLBank San Francisco supports 230 existing affordable housing units (FHLBank San Francisco).
- Family Zoning Plan: San Francisco must adopt a rezoning plan by January 2026 to increase family-friendly housing (SF Planning).
These efforts reflect the city’s ongoing commitment to expanding affordable housing options.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I qualify for affordable housing?
Check the income limits for your household size and the specific program. Most require earning less than 80% of the AMI.
How long is the waitlist for affordable housing in San Francisco?
Wait times vary from a few months to several years, depending on the program and demand.
Can I get help if I’m having trouble with my application?
Yes, housing counselors and community partners listed on SFHA.org can assist.
Are there affordable housing options for specific groups, like seniors or veterans?
Yes, programs like Maceo May Apartments prioritize veterans, and others target seniors or individuals with disabilities.
Conclusion
Applying for affordable housing in San Francisco requires understanding eligibility, navigating application processes, and staying patient due to high demand. Resources like housing counselors, community partners, and online portals can make the process easier. Stay informed about new developments, such as the 2025 Fillmore District projects, and check for waitlist updates regularly.
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