Columbia, SC Low Income Housing: A Comprehensive Guide

Qualifying For Low Income Housing in Columbia, SC

How do I qualify for low income housing in Columbia, SC?
To qualify for low income housing in South Carolina, you must meet the following income requirements:

Your household income must be below 80% of the area median income (AMI). The AMI is updated annually by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and varies by county.

You must have a valid Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

You must be a U.S. citizen or a legal immigrant.

In addition to the income requirements, you may also need to meet other eligibility requirements, such as:

- You must not have been evicted from any public housing or Section 8 housing in the past three years.
- You must not have any outstanding felony convictions for drug-related offenses.
- You must not be a registered sex offender.

Types of Low Income Housing in Columbia, SC

There are a variety of low-income housing options available in Columbia, SC, including:

Public Housing: Public housing is owned and operated by your area Housing Authority. Public housing units are rented to low-income households at below-market rates.
Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers: Section 8 is a federal program that provides rental assistance to low-income households. Vouchers can be used to rent apartments, townhouses, or single-family homes from private landlords.
Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC): LIHTC is a federal program that provides tax credits to developers who build or renovate affordable housing units. LIHTC units are typically rented at below-market rates.
Project-Based Section 8: Project-based Section 8 is a federal program that provides rental assistance to low-income households who live in specific apartment buildings or housing developments.
Very Low Income Housing Development (VLID): VLID is a federal program that provides grants to states and local governments to fund the development of affordable housing for low-income households.

In addition to these federal programs, there are also a number of state and local programs that provide low-income housing assistance in Columbia, SC. These programs may offer rental assistance, down payment assistance, or other forms of financial assistance to help low-income households afford housing.

PublicHousing.com puts together our list of properties using the above program listings all on one website.

We display monthly rates for the apartments when possible. Most of subsidized apartments base the rent on income, therefore, you will need to contact the apartment directly for rates. We list all pertinent contact information.

HUD Fair Market Rent For Columbia, South Carolina - Richland County

Studio Apartments $1,036

One Bedroom Apartments $1,110

Two Bedroom Apartments $1,246

Three Bedroom Apartments $1,595

List of Low Income Housing in or near Columbia, SC

The Pointe at Elmwood Affordable Housing - Columbia

2325 Elmwood Avenue
Columbia, SC - 29204
(803) 935-9075
58 unit affordable housing community. This is a Low Income Housing community. Income restrictions apply. Contact the property for current availability; wait-lists may apply. Email: elmwood@nhe-inc.com...see full details
Richland County

Three Rivers Apartment Homes - Columbia

900 Gracern Road
Columbia, SC - 29210
(844) 811-5924
Three Rivers Apartment Homes offers 132 low income one, two and three bedroom units. This is a Low Income Housing Tax Credit community and will have rent and income restrictions based on the Area Median Income. Given the demand for low income housing, there may be a waiting list. If this listing is incorrect, please contact us using the form below. ...see full details
Richland County

The Farrington Apartment Homes - Columbia

1513 Farrington Way
Columbia, SC - 29210
(844) 363-6587
The Farrington Apartment Homes offers low income one, two and three bedroom units. This is a Low Income Housing Tax Credit community and will have rent and income restrictions based on the Area Median Income. Office Hours: M-F 9 am - 6 pm, S 10 am - 5 pm Given the demand for low income housing, there may be a waiting list. If this listing is incorrect, please contact us using the form below. ...see full details
Richland County

Bethel Bishop Chappelle Memorial Apartments - Columbia

100 Ripplemeyer Ave
Columbia, SC - 29203
(803) 765-9515
Bethel Bishop Chappelle Memorial Apartments is a low income housing apartment subsidized by the federal governments HUD (Housing and Urban Development Division). Contact Bethel Bishop Chappelle Memorial Apartments for complete details on the current vacancies and housing applications....see full details
Richland County

Are Utilities included in rent? (user reports): Yes
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HUD Housing Apartment
Section 8 apartment

Harbison Gardens Apartments - Columbia

401 Columbiana Drive
Columbia, SC - 29212
(844) 743-7260
Harbison Gardens Apartments offers 179 low income one, two and three bedroom units. This is a Low Income Housing Tax Credit community and will have rent and income restrictions based on the Area Median Income. Hours of Operation: Mon-Fri 9:00 am - 5:30 pm, Sat 10 am - 4 pm *Given the demand for low income housing, there may be a waiting list. If this listing is incorrect, please contact us using the form below.* ...see full details
Richland County

Colony Apartments - Affordable Community - Columbia

3545 West Beltline Blvd
Columbia, SC - 29203
(803) 799-5679
Colony Apartments offers affordable family housing, and has been subsidized by the Housing and Urban Development Division. The complex is conveniently located close to state highways 277 and 555, perfect for the commuter, and within easy access of various shopping and dining venues to meet all of one's shopping and dining needs. Colony Apartments should be contacted directly for current information on pricing, availability, and eligibility. Community Amenities: On-site property management...see full details
Richland County

See What Other Users Are Saying
Apartment Costs (user reports): Its based on your income but if you don't make much it could be free
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Are Utilities included in rent? (user reports): Water bill is included
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HUD Housing Apartment
Section 8 apartment

Richland Village, ALP - Columbia

1234-1 Universal Drive
Columbia, SC - 29209
(336) 375-1552
Richland Village, ALP is a family low income housing apartment subsidized by the federal governments HUD (Housing and Urban Development Division). Contact Richland Village, ALP for complete details on the current vacancies and housing applications....see full details
Richland County

Are Utilities included in rent? (user reports): Water
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Pinehaven Villas Apartments - Columbia

1400 Trinity Drive
Columbia, SC -
(803) 776-4663
Pinehaven Villas Apartments is a family low income housing apartment subsidized by the federal governments HUD (Housing and Urban Development Division). Contact Pinehaven Villas Apartments for complete details on the current vacancies and housing applications....see full details
Richland County

Are Utilities included in rent? (user reports): Water
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Palmetto Terrace - Columbia

3021 Howell Avenue
Columbia, SC - 29203
(803) 254-7769
Palmetto Terrace is a family low income housing apartment subsidized by the federal governments HUD (Housing and Urban Development Division). Contact Palmetto Terrace for complete details on the current vacancies and housing applications....see full details
Richland County

Hillandale Apartments - Columbia

525 Alcott Drive
Columbia, SC - 29203
(803) 786-1124
Hillandale Apartments offers affordable family housing and has been subsidized by the Housing and Urban Development Division. Section 8 Low Income Housing Assistance vouchers are accepted. The complex is conveniently located within easy access of shopping and dining venues, and right off of US highway 321, perfect for the commuter. Hillandale should be contacted directly for current information on pricing, availability, and eligibility. ...see full details
Richland County

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Apartment Costs (user reports): 675
300.00
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HUD Housing Apartment
Section 8 apartment

Lakeside Apartments - Columbia

401 Harbison Blvd
Columbia, SC - 29212
(803) 781-8050
Lakeside Apartments offers affordable housing for the elderly and has been subsidized by the Housing and Urban Development Division. Section 8 Low Income Housing Assistance vouchers are accepted. US highway 76 is nearby, perfect for the commuter, and the local Wal Mart, Best Buy, and various shopping venues are easily accessible for all one's shopping needs. Lakeside Apartments should be contacted directly for current pricing, availability, and eligibility information. ...see full details
Richland County

See What Other Users Are Saying
Apartment Costs (user reports): 420
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HUD Housing Apartment
Section 8 apartment

Ahepa 284 IV - Senior Affordable Living Apartments - Columbia

441 Pelham Drive
Columbia, SC - 29209
(803) 647-1021
Ahepa 284 IV is a Senior Affordable Living Community. They offer a Community Room, a Library and Reading Room, On Site Service Coordinators and Wellness Programs. If you are interested in renting at this location please contact them directly to obtain more detailed information. ...see full details
Richland County

HUD Housing Apartment
Section 8 apartment

Ahepa 284 II and III - Senior Affordable Living Apartments - Columbia

130 Jimmy Love Lane
Columbia, SC - 29212
(803) 216-0228
Ahepa 284 II and III are Senior Affordable Living Communities. They offer a Community Room, a Library and Reading Room, On Site Service Coordinators and Wellness Programs. If you are interested in renting at these locations please contact them directly to obtain more detailed information. ...see full details
Richland County

HUD Housing Apartment
Section 8 apartment

Christopher Towers Apartments - Columbia

1805 Devine Street
Columbia, SC - 29201
(803) 799-5876
Christopher Towers offers affordable housing with amenities including 24-hour maintenance, on-site management, a community room and on-site laundry, and a picnic area. There is an on-site beauty salon and grocery store, as well, and the complex itself is within walking distance of many restaurants and shopping venues. Christopher Towers offers large efficiency and one bedroom apartments which have been subsidized under the Section 8 program through the Housing and Urban Development Division, in...see full details
Richland County

Are Utilities included in rent? (user reports): Yes
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HUD Housing Apartment
Section 8 apartment

Gable Oaks Apartments - Columbia

901-6 Colleton Street
Columbia, SC - 29203
(803) 754-4400
Gable Oaks offers affordable family housing and has been subsidized by the Housing and Urban Development Division. The complex is conveniently located right off of US highway 21, perfect for the commuter, and within easy access of the Northway Plaza Shopping Center and the Community Grocery for all one's shopping and dining needs. Gable Oaks should be contacted directly for current information on pricing, availability, and eligibility. ...see full details
Richland County

HUD Housing Apartment
Section 8 apartment

Arrington Place Apartments - Columbia

1734 Van Heise Street
Columbia, SC - 29204
(803) 254-5230
Arrington Place offers affordable family housing and has been subsidized by the Housing and Urban Development Division. The complex is conveniently located within easy access of several local elementary schools, and various shopping and dining venues are easily accessible from the locale, as well. Arrington Place should be contacted for current information on pricing, availability, and eligibility. ...see full details
Richland County

HUD Housing Apartment
Section 8 apartment

Carriage House Apartments of Columbia - Columbia

110 Amsterdam Drive
Columbia, SC - 29210
(803) 772-9400
Carriage House Apartments offers affordable senior housing and has been subsidized by the Housing and Urban Development Division. Section 8 Low Income Housing Assistance vouchers are accepted. The complex is conveniently located within easy access of the local Sandel Elementary School and Strayer University, perfect for the student. Various shopping and dining venues are nearby, as well. Carriage House should be contacted directly for current pricing, availability, and eligibility information. ...see full details
Richland County

HUD Housing Apartment
Section 8 apartment

J. William Pitts Apartments - Columbia

150 Flora Drive
Columbia, SC - 29223
(803) 788-5153
J. William Pitts Apartments Inc. offers affordable senior housing and has been subsidized by the Housing and Urban Development Division. Section 8 Low Income Housing Assistance vouchers are accepted. The complex is conveniently located within easy access of local shopping and dining venues and close to US highway 1, perfect for the commuter. J. Williams Pitts Apartments should be contacted directly for current information on rates, availability, and eligibility. ...see full details
Richland County

See What Other Users Are Saying
Apartment Costs (user reports): 150
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HUD Housing Apartment
Section 8 apartment

Columbia Gardens Apartments - Columbia

4000 Plowden Road
Columbia, SC - 29205
(803) 782-2437
Columbia Gardens Apartments offers affordable family housing, and has been subsidized by the Housing and Urban Development Division. The complex is conveniently located within easy access of local schools and just outside of the Columbia Owens Downtown Airport. Columbia Gardens should be contacted for a list of amenities and information on floor plans, current rates, and availability. ...see full details
Richland County

HUD Housing Apartment
Section 8 apartment

Ahepa 284 I - Senior Affordable Living Apartments - Columbia

451 Pelham Drive
Columbia, SC - 29209
(803) 695-1934
AHEPA 284 I is a Senior Affordable Living Community. They offer a Community Room, a Library and Reading Room, On Site Service Coordinators and Wellness Programs. If you are interested in renting at this location please contact them directly to obtain more detailed information. ...see full details
Richland County

HUD Housing Apartment
Section 8 apartment

South Carolina State Housing Division - Columbia

300-C Outlet Pointe Boulevard
Columbia, SC - 29210
(803)896-8888
South Carolina State Housing Division provides housing assistance to low income residents of Clarendon, Colleton, Dorchester, Fairfield, Kershaw, Lee and Lexington Counties through the management of the areas Housing Choice Voucher Program - Section 8. This program is income based and the eligibility guidelines are set by HUD. There may be waiting lists for these vouchers and at times the lists may close to new applicants based on the size of and length of wait on the lists. If you are in ...see full details
Richland County

Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America, South Carolina Location - Columbia

1631 Richland Street
Columbia, SC - 29201
803-255-0223
The Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America, or the NACA, is a non-profit, community advocacy and homeownership organization. Their primary goal is to build strong, healthy neighborhoods in urban and rural areas nationwide through affordable homeownership, and they strive to achieve these goals in the South Carolina area from their SC location on Richland Street. NACA has made the dream of homeownership a reality for thousands of working people by counseling them honestly and effectively...see full details
Richland County

Benedict Allen Community Development Corporation - Columbia

2601 Read Street
Columbia, SC - 29204
(803) 705-4682
The Benedict-Allen Community Development Corporation is a nonprofit organization that works to promote residential and commercial revitalization by seeking and providing resources for the acquisition, renovation, and redevelopment of substandard properties. Residential revitalization is addressed through the promotion of home ownership via the acquisition, renovation, and resale of existing housing to individuals and families. The Board of Directors consists of various community stakeholders, i...see full details
Richland County

Huntington Place Apartments - Columbia

1003 True Street
Columbia, SC - 29209
(888) 664-9138
Huntington Place Apartments offers both two and three bedroom units for rent. Amenities include a community pool and sundeck, on-site car care and laundry facilities, picnic and grilling areas, an on-site trash compactor, children's playgrounds, and on-site management and maintenance. As of July 2011 rates start at $805 for a two bedroom unit, but pricing is subject to change and so Huntington Place should be contacted directly for current pricing, availability, and eligibility information...see full details
Richland County

West Winds Apartments - Columbia

105 Hillpine Rd.
Columbia, SC - 29212
(866) 933-3919
West Winds Apartments offers one, two, and three bedroom units for rent. Amenities include private patios and balconies, a stackable washers and dryer set, a community business center, landscaped grounds, walking trails, a community clubhouse, and a children's playground. West Winds Apartments should be contacted directly for current pricing, availability, and eligibility information. ...see full details
Richland County

The Shores at Elder's Pond Apartments - Columbia

4500 Hardscrabble Rd.
Columbia, SC - 29229
(803) 462-0024
The Shores at Elder's Pond offers one, two, and three bedroom apartments for rent. Amenities include a community pool, 24-hour community fitness center, a business center, 24-hour emergency maintenance, extra storage, garages, a fully stocked fish pond, and on-site laundry. As of July 2011 rates start at $650 for a single bedroom unit, but pricing is subject to change and so The Shores at Elder's Pond should be contacted directly for current pricing, availability, and eligibility informati...see full details
Richland County

The Retreat Apartments - Columbia

1929 Bluff Rd.
Columbia, SC - 29201
(803) 733-5800
The Retreat Apartments offers two, three, four, and five bedroom units for rent. Amenities include a community clubhouse, pool, fitness centers and clubroom, a computer lab, basketball court, and volleyball court, a putting green, a movie theater, and a tanning bed. The Retreat should be contacted directly for current pricing, availability, and eligibility information. ...see full details
Richland County

The Crestmont Apartments - Columbia

34 Woodcross Dr.
Columbia, SC - 29212
(866) 439-3128
The Crestmont Apartments offers studio, one, two, and three bedroom apartments for rent. Amenities include gated entry and limited access, a community business center and fitness center, on-site laundry, a community pool, and guest suite. Crestmont Apartments should be contacted directly for current pricing, availability, and eligibility information. ...see full details
Richland County

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Apartment Costs (user reports): 450-600
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Are Utilities included in rent? (user reports): all utillities
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St. Andrews Pointe - Columbia

1510 St. Andrews Rd.
Columbia, SC - 29210
(803) 731-9988 ‎
St. Andrews Pointe offers three bedroom units for rent. The complex is conveniently located right off of interstate 26, perfect for the commuter, and within easy access of various eating and shopping venues to meet all of ones shopping and dining needs. St. Andrews Pointe should be contacted directly for current information on pricing, availability, and eligibility. ...see full details
Richland County

St. Andrews Commons - Columbia

1200 St. Andrews Road
Columbia, SC - 29210
(803) 772-0040
St. Andrews Commons offers both one and two bedroom units for rent. Amenities include controlled, limited access gates, lighted tennis courts, a community pool and clubhouse, and a racquetball court for resident recreation, and a community fitness center. As of July 2011 rates start at $541 for a single bedroom unit, but pricing is subject to change and so St. Andrews Commons should be contacted directly for current pricing, availability, and eligibility information. ...see full details
Richland County

St. Andrews Apartments - Columbia

601 St. Andrews Rd.
Columbia, SC - 29210
(803) 798-8315
St. Andrews Apartments offers one, two, and three bedroom apartments for rent. Amenities include a community pool and community fitness center, on-site laundry, a community business center, on-site maintenance, a children's playground, a sand volleyball court, and a BBQ and picnic area for resident recreation. As of July 2011 rates start at $517 for a single bedroom unit, but pricing is subject to change and so St. Andrews Apartments should be contacted directly for current pricing, availa...see full details
Richland County

Spring Valley Apartments - Columbia

127 Sparkleberry Ln.
Columbia, SC - 29229
(803) 708-7600
Spring Valley Apartments offers both two and three bedroom garden flats for rent. Amenities include disability access, extra outside storage for resident convenience, private patios and balconies, a community pool, and a children's playground. Military discounts are available. As of July 2011 rates start at $851 for a two bedroom flat, but pricing is subject to change and so Spring Valley Apartments should be contacted directly for current pricing, availability, and eligibility information...see full details
Richland County

Shandon Crossing Apartments - Columbia

504 S. Beltline Blvd.
Columbia, SC - 29205
(803) 782-7948
Shandon Crossing Apartments offers one, two, and three bedroom units for rent. Amenities include a community pool, on-site laundry, private patios and balconies, and water and sewage utilities are included in rental price. As of July 2011 rates start at $525 for a single bedroom unit, but pricing is subject to change and so Shandon Crossing should be contacted directly for current pricing, availability, and eligibility information. ...see full details
Richland County

Rivergate Apartments - Columbia

3900 Bentley Drive
Columbia, SC - 29210
(803) 772-6663
Rivergate Apartments offers both one and two bedroom units for rent. Amenities include a community pool, sundeck, executive business center, picnic area and BBQ grills, and a community fitness center. There are controlled access gates, parking garages, and a tennis court for resident recreation. Military discounts are available. As of July 2011 rates start at $553 for a single bedroom unit, but pricing is subject to change and so Rivergate Apartments should be contacted directly for curren...see full details
Richland County

The Reserve at River Walk Apartments - Columbia

4501 Bentley Dr.
Columbia, SC - 29210
(888) 831-7260
Reserve at River Walk offers one, two, and three bedroom units for rent. Amenities include a community pool and lush, natural landscaping. As of July 2011 rates start at $555 for a single bedroom unit, but pricing is subject to change and so the Reserve at River Walk should be contacted directly for current pricing, availability, and eligibility information. ...see full details
Richland County

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Apartment Costs (user reports): 830 for 1 bedroom
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Brook Pines Apartments - Columbia

169 Brook Pines Dr.
Columbia, SC - 29210
(803) 798-8996
Brook Pines Apartments offers both one and two bedroom units for rent. Amenities include fully equipped kitchens and central air conditioning, private patios and balconies, a community pool, and on-site laundry. Military, police, and fire department discounts on available. Brook Pines should be contacted directly for current information on pricing, availability, and eligibility. ...see full details
Richland County

Gable Hill Apartments - Columbia

310 Ross Road
Columbia, SC - 29223
(803) 736-5000
Gable Hill Apartments offers one, two, and three bedroom units for rent. Amenities include a community pool, on-site management, a community fitness center and clubhouse, on-site laundry, on-site maintenance, and a children's playground. Military discounts are available. As of July 2011, rates start at $610 for a single bedroom apartment, but pricing is subject to change and so Gable Hill should be contacted directly for current pricing, availability, and eligibility information. ...see full details
Richland County

Broad River Terrace Apartments - Columbia

3245 Lucius Rd
Columbia, SC - 29201
803-738-2445
Broad River Terrace Apartments offers affordable family housing and has been subsidized by the Housing and Urban Development Division. US highway 176 is easily accessible from the convenient location and the beautiful Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park is also nearby. Various shopping and dining venues are also close by to meet all of one's shopping and dining needs. Broad River Terrace Apartments should be contacted directly for current pricing, availability, and eligibility information. ...see full details
Richland County

HUD Housing Apartment
Section 8 apartment

Columbia Housing Authority - Columbia

1917 Harden Street
Columbia, SC - 29204
(803) 254-3886
The Columbia Housing Authority offers information on home ownership, Section 8 vouchers, conventional housing and resident programs, and family self-sufficiency programs. They offer various affordable homes for sale in the South Carolina area, and they work to meet the housing needs of low to moderate-income residents. ...see full details
Richland County

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Apartment Costs (user reports): 750
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Are Utilities included in rent? (user reports): Water sewer trash
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Midlands Community Development Corporation - Columbia

2430 Atlas Road
Columbia, SC - 29209
(803) 647-9111
The Midlands Community Developments Corporation offers home purchase assistance programs, home buyer education and financial literacy programs, and housing counseling programs. As part of the Midlands Community Development Corporation's housing programs, they have partnered in the development of a 106 acre multi use development called Congaree Pointe. The development includes residential, commercial, and recreational components. Over 300 homes are planned in the residential phase. ...see full details
Richland County

Affordable Housing Coalition Of South Carolina - Columbia

PO Box 1623
Columbia, SC - 29202
(803) 808-2980
The Affordable Housing Coalition of South Carolina is dedicated to the creation, preservation and improvement of affordable housing for all those dwelling in the South Carolina area. They advocate for affordable housing for all South Carolina residents, providing a forum for communication, education, and action to create and improve affordable housing for working families, special needs groups, and individuals. The Affordable Housing Coalition of South Carolina should be contacted ...see full details
Richland County

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Apartment Costs (user reports): 600.00
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Are Utilities included in rent? (user reports): None
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Non Profit Apartment

Finlay House High Rise Apartments - Columbia

2100 Blossom St
Columbia, SC - 29205
(803) 799-6524
Finlay House offers affordable housing for residents aged 62 and older and provides quality, supportive housing in the form of 203 apartment units in this 19-story high rise. Local restaurants and shops are within walking distance of the conveniently located complex, and just a few blocks from the University of South Carolina. Finlay House should be contacted directly for current pricing, availability, and eligibility information. ...see full details
Richland County

HUD Housing Apartment
Section 8 apartment

Tips for Finding Low-Income Housing in Columbia, SC

1. Check with local social service agencies. Many social service agencies offer affordable housing programs or can provide you with information on affordable housing resources in your area.
2. HUD Exchange: The HUD Exchange website provides information on a variety of federal housing programs, including Section 8 and HOME.
3. National Low Income Housing Coalition: The NLIHC website provides information on affordable housing programs and policies at the national and state levels.

Check For Waiting Lists
Most apartments have waiting lists. Search early and do not just settle on one apartment choice.

Contact Your Local Housing Authority
Housing authorities have many opportunities. Many do have closed waiting lists, but they may be able to provide other public housing resources.

Check The Federal Poverty Sliding Scale Guidelines
Check to see if you qualify for low cost or free housing by comparing the guidelines to your income records.