Subsidized Housing in Philadelphia
Subsidized housing in Philadelphia covers a range of programs — public housing, Housing Choice Vouchers, and project-based Section 8 — that lower rent for income-eligible households. Most are administered or overseen by the Philadelphia Housing Authority and HUD.
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About This Program in Philadelphia
In Philadelphia, the Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) program and public housing are administered by the Philadelphia Housing Authority (PHA). Rent is income-based — generally about 30% of adjusted household income — whether in a PHA development or with a voucher used in private housing.
How to Apply in Philadelphia
Apply through PHA at pha.phila.gov when waitlists are open. Philadelphia's Fair Practices Ordinance prohibits source-of-income discrimination and is still enforced by the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations — but a 2022 Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruling striking down Pittsburgh's similar ordinance has cast legal doubt on its enforceability, and Pennsylvania has no statewide protection. Confirm your rights with the Commission or a legal aid provider. Call PHA at (215) 684-4000 for current waitlist status.