Public Housing vs. Affordable Housing: Understanding the Difference

Housing is a fundamental aspect of a person's well-being, and ensuring access to safe and affordable homes is a critical societal objective. Two common terms that often come up in discussions surrounding housing are public housing and affordable housing. While both aim to address housing affordability issues, they differ in their ownership, funding, and target populations. Understanding the distinctions between public housing and affordable housing can help individuals, policymakers, and communities make informed decisions about housing initiatives.

What is Public Housing?

Public housing refers to housing units owned and operated by government entities, typically at the local or municipal level. These units are specifically designated for low-income individuals or families who meet certain eligibility criteria. Public housing is often developed and managed by public housing authorities (PHAs) and funded through government subsidies and programs. Rent in public housing is typically set at a percentage of a tenant's income, ensuring affordability for those with limited financial resources. Public housing projects are generally large-scale developments, comprising multiple units within a single complex or scattered across various locations.

What is Affordable Housing?

Affordable housing encompasses a broader range of housing options that are designed to be affordable to individuals or families with various income levels. It can be developed and owned by a variety of entities, including government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private developers. Unlike public housing, these projects can receive funding from multiple sources, such as government grants, tax credits, and private investments. Rent in affordable housing is often determined by a combination of factors, including the tenant's income, the size of the unit, and the local housing market. This type of housing can take the form of apartment buildings, townhouses, or even single-family homes.

Key Difference Between Public & Affordable Housing:

• Ownership: Public housing units are owned and operated by the government, while affordable housing can be owned by a range of entities, including both public and private entities.
• Regulations & Management: Public housing is subject to specific regulations and oversight by the Public Housing Agency (PHA), ensuring compliance with eligibility requirements and maintenance standards. Affordable housing, on the other hand, may have different management structures depending on the ownership entity, but it often operates under less stringent regulations compared to public housing.
• Target Populations: Public housing primarily targets low-income households, often those with extremely low incomes. Eligibility criteria and income limits are set by the government to prioritize the most vulnerable individuals and families. Affordable housing aims to provide housing options for a broader range of income levels. Some affordable housing projects may cater to moderate-income individuals or families, allowing a more diverse mix of residents within the community.

Expert Help With Complex Public & Affordable Housing Transactions – Call Us Today!

Based in Rome, Georgia, Brinson Askew Berry’s public and affordable housing law team is well versed in this specialized area of law. In fact, we represent six public housing authorities in the state of Georgia. We are experienced in affordable housing development, fair housing issues, landlord-tenant and HUD compliance and regulatory matters. Whether you are a developer, housing authority, nonprofit organization, or a special purpose authority, we are here to help you!