What is the Chicago housing lottery?
When an ARO building opens applications and receives more qualifying applicants than available units, it typically runs a lottery: every qualifying applicant during the open window is randomized, and units are awarded in that order. There is no single citywide lottery — each ARO building runs its own.
CHA programs work differently. CHA operates Section 8 waitlists and CHA public housing waitlists. As of September 23, 2026, CHA reports its public housing waitlists are open and its Housing Choice Voucher waitlist is closed; CHA says the voucher list will use a lottery when it reopens.
How an ARO lottery works
- 1. The building opens applications. The leasing office announces an application window (often 1–4 weeks) when ARO units become available.
- 2. Qualifying applicants enter the pool. Every applicant who meets the income limits and basic screening criteria is entered.
- 3. The lottery is run. The building (or an administrator) randomizes the pool. Order is set; arrival time within the window does not matter.
- 4. Verification begins in lottery order. The first applicant is offered a unit. If they decline or fail verification, the next applicant in line is contacted.
- 5. Lease signing. Approved applicants sign a standard 12-month lease at the ARO rate.
Tips to improve your lottery experience
- Apply to several buildings. Because each lottery is independent, the more pools you enter, the better your odds.
- Have documents ready before applying. See our required document checklist. Missing or late paperwork can delay verification and cost you your place in line.
- Match your tier to the building. Applying for an 80% AMI unit when you qualify at 60% gives you access to a wider pool of buildings.
- Check listings frequently. New ARO openings post regularly — bookmark our Chicago ARO listings page.
Frequently asked lottery questions
Is the Chicago housing lottery the same as Section 8 or CHA?
No. The phrase 'housing lottery' usually refers to ARO buildings that receive more applications than available units and randomize the order — it's not a separate government program. CHA public housing uses waitlists; when CHA reopens its Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) waitlist, CHA says it will use a waitlist lottery.
How do I enter an ARO lottery?
You apply directly to the building during its open application window. If the building uses a lottery, every qualifying applicant submitted during the window has an equal chance, regardless of when they applied within that period.
Does paying a fee improve my odds?
No. Application fees cover background and credit checks; they do not affect lottery ranking. Be skeptical of any service that promises 'guaranteed' placement.
What happens after I'm picked in the lottery?
The building's leasing office verifies your income and documents. If you qualify, you sign a standard lease. If not, the next applicant in the lottery order is contacted.
Disclaimer: Not affiliated with the City of Chicago, CHA, or HUD. Each ARO building sets its own application and lottery process; confirm details with the leasing office.