Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers in Chicago
Section 8 — officially the Housing Choice Voucher program — helps Chicago renters afford housing in the private market by covering the difference between about 30% of household income and the rent. In Chicago the program is run by the Chicago Housing Authority (CHA), and city and county law protect voucher holders from being turned away by landlords.
Get alerts for voucher-friendly housing in Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers in Chicago
Sign up for free and we'll email you when new openings and helpful information become available.
Voucher-Friendly Buildings
About This Program in Chicago
In Chicago, the Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) program and public housing are administered by the Chicago Housing Authority (CHA). Rent is income-based — generally about 30% of adjusted household income — whether in a CHA development or with a voucher used in private housing.
How to Apply in Chicago
Apply through CHA at thecha.org when waitlists are open; openings are often filled by lottery. Chicago and Cook County protect renters from source-of-income discrimination, so most landlords cannot refuse a Housing Choice Voucher. Call CHA at (312) 742-8500 for current waitlist status.