If you have a Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher, you’re already one step closer to finding affordable housing—but navigating the rental market can still be tricky. Not every landlord accepts vouchers, and the search process can feel overwhelming. This guide will help you understand how to find apartments that take Section 8, what to look out for, and how to make the most of your voucher.
What Is Section 8?
The Section 8 program, officially called the Housing Choice Voucher Program, is run by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). It helps low-income individuals and families afford decent, safe, and sanitary housing in the private rental market. If you’re approved for a voucher, you pay about 30% of your income toward rent, and HUD pays the rest directly to your landlord.
How to Find Apartments That Take Section 8
Here are the most effective ways to search for apartments that take Section 8 vouchers:
1. Use Official Housing Authority Resources
Start with your local Public Housing Authority (PHA). They may offer a list of landlords who accept vouchers or have an online portal for available Section 8-friendly rentals. Visit HUD.gov to find your local office.
2. Search on Section 8 Apartment Websites
Several websites focus specifically on apartments that take Section 8, including:
These sites let you filter by voucher acceptance, rent amount, number of bedrooms, and location.
3. Use Popular Rental Sites—with Filters
Sites like Zillow, Apartments.com, and Craigslist often include Section 8 listings, but you may have to dig. Try searching keywords like “Section 8 welcome,” “HCV accepted,” or “income-based housing” in the description field.
4. Ask Property Managers and Landlords Directly
Some landlords may not advertise that they accept vouchers, but are open to it. When contacting a landlord, simply ask:
“Do you accept Section 8 or Housing Choice Vouchers?”
What to Know Before Renting with a Section 8 Voucher
Finding an apartment is just the first step. Here’s what you need to keep in mind once you find a place that takes Section 8:
The Apartment Must Pass a HUD Inspection
Before you can move in, the unit must pass a Housing Quality Standards (HQS) inspection to ensure it meets safety and livability standards. Your PHA will schedule this with the landlord.
Rent Must Be “Reasonable”
Even if the landlord accepts vouchers, the rent must fall within HUD’s local Fair Market Rent range. If the rent is too high, the PHA may deny the unit, or you’ll be asked to pay more out-of-pocket.
You Still Need to Apply Like Any Other Tenant
Having a voucher doesn’t guarantee approval. Landlords can still run background checks, credit checks, and ask for income documentation. However, they cannot legally reject you just because you have a voucher—that could violate fair housing laws in many areas.
Know Your Rights
Some states and cities have Source of Income Discrimination laws, which make it illegal for landlords to refuse tenants solely because they use Section 8. Check your local laws, and if you believe you were denied unfairly, contact your PHA or a fair housing agency.
Tips for a Successful Section 8 Rental Search
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Be prepared with documents like your voucher, income information, and references.
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Respond quickly to listings—affordable units go fast.
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Build relationships with landlords who accept vouchers—they may refer you to others.
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Keep your voucher up to date by meeting all PHA requirements and deadlines.
Finding apartments that take Section 8 can be challenging, but with the right tools, knowledge, and persistence, you can secure a great place to live. Use trusted resources, ask the right questions, and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself.
If you’re a voucher holder navigating the housing market, stay informed and take advantage of every tool available to you. With a little effort, your Section 8 voucher can open the door to a stable, affordable home.
