Voucher-Friendly Housing in Chicago

CHA is one of the largest public housing authorities in the country, serving the city of Chicago. It operates traditional developments — such as Altgeld Gardens, Dearborn Homes, and Wentworth Gardens — along with mixed-income communities and the Housing Choice Voucher program. Rent in CHA public housing is income-based, set at roughly 30% of adjusted household income.

CHA maintains waitlists for public housing and the Housing Choice Voucher program. Waitlists open and close periodically depending on availability and funding, and many use a lottery when they open. Applicants can list development preferences and are contacted as units become available. Check current waitlist status directly with CHA before applying.

Chicago protects renters from source-of-income discrimination. Under the Chicago Fair Housing Ordinance and the Cook County Human Rights Ordinance, most landlords may not refuse to rent to you simply because you would pay with a Housing Choice Voucher. If a landlord rejects your voucher, you may have a right to file a complaint.

Apply through the Chicago Housing Authority (CHA). Create an application for public housing and/or the Housing Choice Voucher waitlist at thecha.org or a CHA office when waitlists are open. Rent is based on income (about 30% of adjusted household income); eligibility is generally limited to households at or below local income limits. Call CHA at (312) 742-8500 for current waitlist information.