Affordable Housing

Do you qualify?

To get help with paying for housing through government programs, you must meet income requirements based on the area median income.

The 2026 area median income, also called "AMI," for San Diego County is:

$130,900

San Diego County income limits (effective May 6, 2026)

Family Size	30% of AMI Extremely Low Income	50% of AMI Very Low Income	80% of AMI Low Income
1	36,750	61,250	97,950
2	42,000	70,000	111,950
3	47,250	78,750	125,950
4	52,450	87,450	139,900
5	56,650	94,450	151,100
6	60,850	101,450	162,300
7	65,050	108,450	173,500
8	69,250	115,450	184,700

Help paying rent

Voucher programs pay a portion of your rent if you have a low income. Most voucher programs have waiting lists.

Project-based vouchers

Vouchers available for specific apartments throughout the county.

Most developments have waiting lists due to the high demand for affordable housing.
The city is not directly involved in the leasing and management of these properties.
Affordable rental housing are owned and operated by private affordable housing developers.

See county map

Section 8 vouchers

Vouchers you can use for any apartment as long as it meets the criteria.

The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program is administered by the County of San Diego Housing Authority (call 858-694-4801)

How this program works

ElderHelp

ElderHelp Housing Services offers a roommate matching service connecting people who want to share their homes with those looking for housing. Some home providers offer lower rent in exchange for services.

Learn about home sharing

The City of San Marcos is committed to providing equal housing opportunity for all people regardless of race, color, religion, sex, disability, national origin, familial status or any other protected class under Federal and State Law. If you believe you have been a victim of discrimination, or have any questions about fair housing, please contact the Legal Aid Society at (844) 449-3500. You may also contact the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Fair Housing hotline 800-669-9777.