Affordable Housing for Seniors in California: Options and Resources

The increasing demand for housing, coupled with higher construction costs and a limited supply of building materials, has led to rising housing prices across California. This has highlighted the urgent need for safe, accessible, and affordable housing options for seniors, contributing to higher rental costs in many regions.

Meanwhile, the number of low-income adults aged 65 and over is growing. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, nearly 1 in 3 older adults in the U.S. live on incomes below 200% of the federal poverty level. In 2025, that threshold is about $29,160 annually for a single person—a figure many seniors in California fall below.

California, renowned for its diverse landscapes and vibrant culture, is also home to one of the nation’s largest senior populations. As retirees navigate rising living costs, defining “low income” for seniors in California becomes crucial for accessing support and housing opportunities.

What is Considered Low Income in California?

In California, seniors are generally considered “low income” if their annual household income falls below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for their county. These AMI thresholds vary across regions Los Angeles County’s 80% AMI is much higher than that of smaller inland counties.

The California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) publishes annual income limit reports for all 58 counties, updated each year to reflect local economic conditions. These figures are widely used to determine eligibility for senior affordable housing programs and income-driven assistance.

California Median Income for Seniors

The median income for seniors in California remains significantly lower than the general population. While HUD’s 2025 state median family income is above $110,000, the U.S. Census Bureau estimates that seniors living alone often earn far less, around $50,000 or below annually.

This income gap underscores why many seniors struggle with rent and living costs, despite owning homes or having some retirement savings. For renters especially, affordable housing programs are a critical safety net.

Housing Assistance Programs for Low-Income Seniors

Several government-backed programs help seniors in California access affordable housing:

1. Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8)

Provides rent subsidies that allow eligible seniors to pay 30–40% of their income toward rent, while vouchers cover the balance. This ensures access to safe housing in the private rental market.

2. Subsidized Housing

California offers subsidized apartment complexes designed for low-income seniors. These often include supportive services such as wellness programs, accessibility features, and community resources.

3. Public Housing

Local housing authorities manage senior-friendly public housing units with reduced rent. These properties provide stability and affordability in cities with high market rents.

4. Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC)

Encourages private developers to build affordable units. Many LIHTC developments reserve apartments for seniors, giving older adults more rental opportunities at below-market rates.

5. Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly

A federally funded program offering affordable housing combined with supportive services like transportation, meals, or case management for seniors who need help with daily living.

California’s Services for Senior Citizen Low-Income Housing

Beyond housing, California provides supportive services that help seniors maintain independence and quality of life:

• Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC): Central hub for local housing and care resources.
• CalFresh Healthy Living: Nutrition assistance and wellness programs.
• Caregiver Resource Centers: Support for family caregivers of elderly Californians.
• Digital Inclusion Programs: Training to help seniors stay connected and access online resources.
• Dignity at Home Fall Prevention Program: Safety modifications and fall-prevention services for aging in place.

These programs complement affordable housing by reducing health risks, promoting independence, and ensuring seniors can remain in stable environments.

Conclusion

Understanding what qualifies as low income for seniors in California is essential for accessing the right housing and support resources. With state and federal programs like Section 8, LIHTC, and Section 202, seniors have pathways to affordable housing even in high-cost regions.

Despite challenges like inflation and rising rents, California continues to expand services that ensure older adults can live securely and independently. By tapping into available programs and staying informed on updated income limits, seniors and their families can make empowered housing choices.

For inquiries on affordable housing and property management tailored to seniors, contact us at BFPM Inc.