Voucher housing in New York State
New York State has one of the most extensive voucher and subsidized housing systems in the United States, including the federal Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) program, NYC-specific programs like CityFHEPS and FHEPS, the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA), and many smaller programs. New York State law explicitly prohibits landlords from discriminating against voucher holders.
Cities in New York
Voucher Housing in New York
New York State's voucher housing landscape spans multiple cities and program structures:
- New York City (population ~8.3M) is the largest voucher market in the U.S., with approximately 380,000 households using Section 8, NYCHA Public Housing, CityFHEPS, FHEPS, HASA, or related programs
- Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, and Albany also have substantial voucher markets administered through local housing authorities
- Long Island (Nassau and Suffolk counties) and Westchester County have suburban voucher markets administered through county housing authorities
For now, VoucherHousing.org focuses on New York City. Additional New York State cities will launch in future phases.
Source of Income Protections in New York
New York State Human Rights Law § 296-2-a (enacted in 2019 and expanded in 2020) prohibits landlords from refusing to rent to a tenant because they use a Section 8 voucher, CityFHEPS, FHEPS, HASA, Social Security, SSI, child support, disability benefits, or other lawful sources of income. This applies to landlords, brokers, real estate agents, and rental advertisements throughout the state. Violations can result in damages, penalties, and mandatory fair housing training. File complaints with the NY State Division of Human Rights, or in NYC with the NYC Commission on Human Rights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does New York State law protect Section 8 holders from discrimination?
Yes. NY State Human Rights Law § 296-2-a, enacted in 2019, prohibits source-of-income discrimination by landlords, brokers, and real estate agents anywhere in New York State.
Which NYC programs are administered by NYCHA vs. HRA?
NYCHA administers Section 8 (federal) and NYCHA Public Housing in NYC. HRA (Human Resources Administration) administers CityFHEPS, FHEPS, and HASA.
Are vouchers portable across NY State?
Section 8 vouchers are federally portable across the U.S., including within New York State. CityFHEPS is NYC-only and not portable. FHEPS has specific portability rules that vary.
When will VoucherHousing.org launch in other NY cities?
We are starting with New York City in Phase 1. Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Long Island, and Westchester are planned for future launches.