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HUD Resource Locator: How to Find Affordable Rental Housing
A step-by-step guide to HUD's free Resource Locator map for affordable and HUD-assisted apartments, what it can and cannot tell you, and how to apply through property managers.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) runs a free online map called the HUD Resource Locator. It helps renters find affordable housing such as HUD-assisted apartments and Low Income Housing Tax Credit properties. It works differently from commercial listing sites, so it helps to know what to expect before you start.
Open the HUD Resource Locator →
What the HUD Resource Locator is
The Resource Locator is a map of affordable housing locations with contact information for each property's management. According to HUD, it shows where properties are and how to reach them, but it does not show whether units are available. HUD also states that it does not take applications for these properties, does not have vacancy information and does not maintain waiting lists. You must contact each property's management company to ask about openings, waitlists and how to apply.
The map can be especially helpful for Housing Choice Voucher holders. HUD's voucher guidance notes that tax credit properties are required to accept housing vouchers as a source of payment.
How to search step by step
- Open the HUD Resource Locator map.
- Allow location access if you want the map to start near you, or decline and search manually.
- Select the option to find affordable housing opportunities near you.
- Type your ZIP code or city into the search bar to move the map to that area.
- Click the property icons to see each property's address and management contact details.
- Make a list of properties in the neighborhoods that work for you.
- Call or email each management company to ask about vacancies, waitlists, income limits and application steps.
Costs and fees to expect
The HUD map is free. Rent and fees at affordable properties depend on the program that applies to each building:
- Income-based rent: in some HUD-assisted housing, your rent is tied to your household income.
- Rent-restricted units: in tax credit properties, rent is set by the unit's restrictions rather than your income, and you must earn no more than the unit's income limit.
- Application costs: some properties charge screening fees, while others may not; ask before you apply.
- Security deposits: most properties still require one, so ask how much and when it is due.
Ask each property which program it participates in so you understand how your rent will be calculated.
Tips and scam warnings
- Apply to several properties; affordable housing often has long waitlists.
- Keep a log of where you applied, the date and the contact person, and update properties if your phone number or address changes.
- The map is free and HUD does not run waitlists for these properties, so be cautious of anyone who claims they can guarantee you a unit for a fee.
- Never pay to "reserve" an affordable unit by wire transfer, gift card or cryptocurrency.
- If you have a Housing Choice Voucher, mention it when you call so the property can tell you how it handles voucher applicants.
- For advice on your situation, consider a HUD-approved housing counselor; HUD lets you search for one online.
The Resource Locator works best as a contact list. Expect to make several calls, and keep following up while you wait for a unit to open.
Open the HUD Resource Locator →
Frequently asked questions
Does the HUD Resource Locator show available apartments?
No. HUD says the map does not show vacancies. Contact each property's management company to ask about openings and waitlists.
Can I apply for housing through HUD directly?
No. HUD states it does not take applications or keep waitlists for these properties; you apply with the property management company.
Do tax credit properties accept Section 8 vouchers?
HUD's voucher guidance says Low Income Housing Tax Credit properties are required to accept housing vouchers as a source of payment.
Sources
Disclaimer: This guide is general information only and may not fit your situation or country. Rules, prices and requirements change, so check the details with the official source or a qualified professional before you act. Read our full disclaimer.