CHA Public Housing

Chicago Housing Authority provides subsidized housing for low-income residents. Learn about eligibility, housing types, and how to apply.

Last reviewed:

Long Waitlists

CHA waitlists open and close, and wait times vary. You can also look into ARO apartments — each building manages its own applications. You can browse City-listed ARO properties, check the AMI income limits, or read how the Chicago housing lottery works for new ARO buildings.

What is CHA Public Housing?

The Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) is one of the largest public housing authorities in the nation. CHA provides housing assistance to approximately 66,000 households through public housing and the Housing Choice Voucher program.

In public housing, CHA owns and manages the buildings directly. Residents pay rent based on their income (typically 30%), with CHA subsidizing the rest.

Through its Plan for Transformation, CHA has been replacing older high-rise projects with modern mixed-income communities that blend affordable and market-rate housing.

Types of CHA Housing

Traditional Public Housing

CHA-owned and managed apartment buildings throughout Chicago

  • Rent based on 30% of income
  • Fixed locations—can't take housing with you
  • On-site management and maintenance
  • Long waitlists (often years)

Mixed-Income Developments

Newer communities with market-rate and affordable units together

  • Modern amenities and construction
  • Integrated neighborhoods
  • Professional property management
  • Separate application process

Senior Housing

Designated buildings for residents 62 and older

  • Age-restricted communities
  • Accessible unit features
  • On-site services in some locations
  • Separate senior waitlists (check CHA for status)

Eligibility Requirements

Income Limits

Household income must be at or below 80% of Area Median Income (AMI). Priority is often given to extremely low-income families (below 30% AMI). 2026 80% AMI limits (effective May 1, 2026):

  • 1 person:$68,050
  • 2 people:$77,800
  • 4 people:$97,200

Source: City of Chicago 2026 Income and Rent Limits. Effective May 1, 2026. Last verified: .

Other Requirements

  • U.S. citizen or eligible immigration status
  • Pass criminal background screening
  • No outstanding debt to CHA
  • Provide required documentation
  • Meet unit occupancy standards

Featured Mixed-Income Developments

CHA's newer developments offer modern amenities in revitalized neighborhoods.

Parkside of Old Town

Near North

Mixed-income

Roosevelt Square

Near West Side

Mixed-income

Park Boulevard

Bronzeville

Mixed-income

Oakwood Shores

Bronzeville

Mixed-income

Westhaven Park

Near West Side

Mixed-income

How to Apply

1

Check Current Availability

Visit CHA's website to see which waitlists are open. Not all properties accept applications year-round.

2

Submit Application Online

Apply through the CHA online portal or visit a CHA office. You'll need ID, income documentation, and household information.

3

Wait for Your Turn

Keep your contact information updated. CHA will contact you when you're near the top of the list.

4

Complete Eligibility Verification

When called, provide updated documentation and complete background checks.

Apply at CHA WebsiteExplore ARO apartments

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