Where do I find out about all the types of AFFORDABLE, i.e. regulated or subsidized, housing? This is a big topic. For starters, visit the affordable housing section of our Apartment Guide, dedicated to giving you information and advice on everything you need to know about rental housing in NYC. Then, look at the DHCR fact sheets on our website, which explain the differences between rent control and rent stabilization. There are many types of assisted housing in the city, including public housing, Section 8 housing, and Mitchell-Lama housing. If you have the time, you may find a reasonably priced apartment. However, it does take a lot of effort. Try using our list of stabilized buildings to search for rent regulated housing. Generally, apartments outside of Manhattan are the most affordable.

Why is it that people in one building pay wildly varying rates for the same apartment? Rent regulations, and the propensity of renters in NYC to stay in one place a long time, tend to 'discount' rents for long-term tenants.

What is the Section 8 program? Section 8 is a federal program which provides housing subsidies to qualified low income households. The tenant must apply for either a certificate or voucher. Unfortunately the wait list for this type of assistance is very long (about 8 years in New York City). Under the Certificate program, tenants generally pay 30% of their income as their portion of the rent. Owners must agree to a federally established "fair market rent." Under the Voucher program, the rent subsidy is the difference between 30% of the adjusted household income and a pre-established payment standard. If the rent exceeds the payment standard, the tenant must cover the difference.