Types of Subsidized Housing

KCHA's waiting list for subsidized housing is temporarily closed. During this temporary closure, KCHA is reviewing and refining its policies and procedures related to the waiting list and transitioning to new housing-management software. All of this will position KCHA to improve its service to applicants going forward. The waiting list will reopen once the software conversion and restructuring are successfully completed.

KCHA owns and manages more than 70 subsidized housing properties. Some primarily serve families; others are open only to seniors and the disabled. You apply for all of these types of housing using the same application form. Please note that KCHA's moderate-income housing and its other rental housing include different properties. Their application processes also vary.

Our housing search tool can give you an estimate of your eligibility for all of KCHA's programs — including subsidized housing — based on your family size, income, and housing preferences.

You can also browse the different types of subsidized housing listed in the categories below.

For Families, Seniors Age 55+, Disabled Persons

KCHA rents more than 2,500 units of this type of housing across the county. These homes range between 1 and 5 bedrooms in size. In most cases, residents pay no more than 30 percent of their household monthly income for rent and utilities.

(* For seniors age 55+ and disabled persons only)

KCHA also works with private landlords to rent a small number of 2-, 3-, and 4-bedroom units. These landlords screen applicants for suitability. There is a screening fee for each adult household member and a security deposit that varies by property.

To apply for this housing, look for the Private Housing option in the "Additional Housing Types" section of the application form. Please note: you cannot select specific Private Housing properties; you will be offered the first available unit of appropriate size that becomes available.

For Seniors Age 62+, Disabled Persons

KCHA rents more than 1,500 units of this type of housing to seniors and disabled persons across the county and in Olympia. These homes include studios and 1-bedroom apartments. In most cases, residents pay no more than 30 percent of their household monthly income for rent and utilities.

For Seniors Age 60+

KCHA rents roughly 30 units of this type of housing. All apartments offer 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom. Unlike other subsidized housing, tenants do not pay 30 percent of household monthly income for rent and utilities. Instead, they pay a flat rent of $330 per month. To apply for housing at these properties, look for the Local Programs option in the "Additional Housing Types" section of the application form.