12 Best Low-Income Apartments in Detroit, Michigan

🏠🧓

HUD • MSHDA • Detroit Housing Commission Verified

Every property listed here is HUD-subsidized or LIHTC-certified, independently verified with real addresses and phone numbers, and selected for senior-friendliness: accessible units, on-site services, manageable income requirements, and transparent application processes.

💡 10 Key Things Every Detroit Renter Should Know Before Applying

Detroit features more than 13,900 income-based apartment units and over 11,000 additional rent-subsidized units, according to federal housing data from AffordableHousingOnline.com. Yet navigating HUD programs, Section 8 vouchers, Project-Based Voucher waiting lists, and LIHTC properties can feel overwhelming — especially for older adults on fixed incomes. These answers cut straight to what matters most.

1
How is rent calculated in a HUD-subsidized apartment in Detroit? You pay approximately 30% of your adjusted monthly income — no more.
Under HUD’s income-based housing programs, rent is set at 30% of a household’s adjusted gross income. For example, if your only income is a $1,200 Social Security benefit, your rent would be approximately $360 per month. The Detroit Housing Commission (DHC) confirms this formula applies to all Public Housing and Project-Based Voucher (PBV) apartments it administers. Utility costs may be factored in depending on the property.
2
What is the income limit to qualify for low-income housing in Detroit? Generally 50% of Area Median Income (AMI) or below for most programs — about $31,400 for a single person.
HUD defines income eligibility in tiers. A single-person household earning 50% AMI or less (“very low income”) qualifies for most Section 8 programs in the Detroit metro area. Those at 30% AMI or less (“extremely low income,” approximately $18,840 for one person) receive priority placement. Social Security income, pension payments, and other recurring sources all count toward your total. The Detroit Housing Commission eligibility calculator at dhcmi.org can give you a personalized estimate in minutes.
3
What is the difference between Section 8 and a Project-Based Voucher (PBV) apartment? Section 8 vouchers follow you to any qualifying rental; PBV assistance stays with a specific building.
A Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) lets you choose your own rental home in the private market and bring your subsidy with you if you move. A Project-Based Voucher is attached to a particular apartment complex — when you apply for properties like City View Senior Towers or Village of University Meadows through the Detroit Housing Commission, you are applying for PBV assistance at that specific address. If you leave, the subsidy stays with the unit. Both reduce your rent to 30% of income, but PBV apartments typically have easier application processes and dedicated senior communities.
4
Is there a waiting list? How long does it take to get housing in Detroit? Yes — most properties have waiting lists. Waits range from months to several years depending on the property and your priority status.
Detroit’s rental vacancy rate is approximately 4%, below the national average, meaning competition for affordable units is real. The Detroit Housing Commission’s Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program maintains its own waiting list; their Project-Based Voucher properties have separate lists. Seniors, people with disabilities, and people experiencing homelessness often receive priority placement. Applying to multiple waiting lists simultaneously — legally permitted — is the most effective strategy to reduce your wait time. Always keep your application information current.
5
Can I apply for low-income housing in Detroit if I have past evictions or credit problems? Possibly yes — HUD-assisted housing cannot deny you solely for poor credit, and many properties accept applicants with past housing difficulties.
HUD regulations prohibit blanket denials based on credit score alone. Criminal background checks are conducted, but HUD’s 2022 guidance requires case-by-case review rather than automatic rejection. Past evictions are reviewed individually. Properties like Evangelical Manor, managed by National Church Residences, and EHM Senior Solutions communities prioritize residents in need regardless of past financial difficulties. Be honest on your application; concealment is grounds for immediate disqualification.
6
What documents do I need to apply for a low-income apartment in Detroit? Photo ID, Social Security card, proof of all income sources, and documentation of household members.
Standard required documents include: government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or passport), Social Security card for all household members, proof of income (Social Security award letter, pension statements, bank statements showing regular deposits), birth certificates for dependents, and any documentation of disability or special circumstances that may qualify you for priority placement. Gathering these before contacting a property speeds the process significantly. The Detroit Housing Commission office at 2211 Orleans Street, Detroit 48207, can assist walk-in applicants.
7
Are there low-income apartments in Detroit specifically designed for seniors? Yes — at least 58 low-income senior communities in Detroit specifically serve adults aged 55+ or 62+.
According to After55.com, Detroit has at least 58 income-restricted senior living communities. Many are HUD Section 202 properties, which are federally funded specifically to serve low-income seniors aged 62 and older. These communities often include elevators, emergency call systems, grab bars in bathrooms, service coordinators, and on-site activities — features that make daily life safer and more social for older adults on fixed incomes. Several of the 12 properties on this list are exclusively senior-designated.
8
What is Detroit Home Connect and how does it help apartment seekers? It is the City of Detroit’s official free housing search tool at homeconnect.detroitmi.gov — the most reliable starting point for any search.
Detroit Home Connect, operated by the City of Detroit, is a centralized platform where affordable rental properties post available units and waiting list status. You can filter by income level, household size, accessible features, and senior-friendly designation. It is the most current and officially verified source for Detroit affordable housing listings, updated directly by property managers. The Michigan Housing Locator (michiganhousinglocator.com), maintained by MSHDA, lists additional privately operated affordable rentals statewide.
9
Are utilities included in the rent at HUD senior apartments? It varies by property — many senior HUD apartments include water, heat, and trash but require tenants to pay electric.
Several properties on this list — including Lee Crest Apartments and City View Senior Towers — include water, heat, and garbage in the rent, with tenants responsible only for electric. Others like Freedom Place include heat and air conditioning within the building systems but individual electric costs vary. Always ask a property specifically: “What utilities am I responsible for?” and “What is the average monthly utility bill?” before signing a lease. HUD’s Utility Allowance Schedule for your area is posted at MSHDA’s website and reduces your effective rent to account for any utilities you pay independently.
10
Is there emergency or immediate housing assistance available in Detroit if I need help right now? Yes — call the City of Detroit’s Housing Services Line at (866) 313-2520 or dial 2-1-1 for immediate assistance and local referrals.
HUD’s Detroit Field Office and the City of Detroit jointly operate a Housing Services hotline at (866) 313-2520 that provides direct assistance, utility help referrals, and emergency housing connections. Dialing 2-1-1 in Michigan connects you to the Michigan 211 network for immediate local resources including shelter, food, and crisis housing. For seniors in specific need, the Michigan Aging & Adult Services Agency can be reached at (517) 241-4100. Veterans facing housing instability should call the VA at (877) 424-3838 for VASH voucher assistance.

Sources: AffordableHousingOnline.com (13,908 income-based units; 11,186 subsidized units in Detroit); HUD.gov/states/michigan (income tiers; DHC program descriptions; emergency line 866-313-2520); Detroit Housing Commission dhcmi.org (30% income rent formula; PBV program; eligibility calculator); MSHDA.gov (Section 8 HCV program; utility allowances); After55.com (58 Detroit senior income-restricted communities); HUD 2022 criminal background guidance; Michigan 211 (dial 2-1-1); Michigan Aging & Adult Services Agency (517) 241-4100

🏆 The 12 Best Low-Income Apartments in Detroit, Michigan — Verified

⚠️ Always Verify Current Availability and Terms Directly with Each Property

Addresses, phone numbers, and program details are confirmed from official property websites, the Detroit Housing Commission, and government housing databases as of March 2026. Waiting list status, available units, and income limits change frequently. Always call before visiting. All properties are HUD-subsidized or LIHTC-certified.

Best DHC Senior PBV

City View Senior Towers

🏦 HUD Section 8 Project-Based Voucher — Midtown Detroit

🧓 Age 62+ Required

✅ Rent: 30% of adjusted monthly income

✅ Units: 1-Bedroom

✅ Gas, Water, Electric & Heat included

✅ Internet included

✅ Stunning city & RenCen views

✅ Near hospitals & Wayne State University

✅ Surface lot parking available

⚠️ Waiting list open — apply via DHC

City View Senior Towers is among the most sought-after senior PBV communities in Detroit, administered through the Detroit Housing Commission. The breathtaking floor-to-ceiling views of the Detroit skyline and Renaissance Center set this property apart from every other senior building in the city. All major utilities — gas, water, electric, heat, and internet — are included in the rent, making monthly costs extraordinarily predictable for seniors on fixed Social Security income. Located on St. Antoine in Midtown, residents have three hospitals within 0.8 miles, Wayne State University nearby, and easy access to public transit. Apply through dhcmi.org — select Project Based Vouchers from the Section 8 menu.

📍 4690 St Antoine Street, Detroit, MI 48201
📞 Call: (313) 831-1725 — Mon–Fri 9 AM–5 PM
🌐 Apply: dhcmi.org (Project Based Vouchers section)

Age 62+ Only All Utilities Included DHC Section 8 PBV Midtown Location City Views

Best 55+ LIHTC Community

Village of University Meadows

🏠 LIHTC + DHC Project-Based Vouchers — West Side Detroit

🧓 Age 55+ Required

✅ Rent: Income-based (30% of income)

✅ Units: 1 & 2-Bedroom (53 total)

✅ Resident Service Coordinator on-site

✅ 24-hour laundry on each floor

✅ Walking path, Community garden

✅ Home health services facilitated

✅ Emergency maintenance 24/7

✅ On DDOT bus line — no car needed

Managed by Presbyterian Villages of Michigan in partnership with Develop Detroit, Village of University Meadows is one of Detroit’s most respected senior affordable communities. The on-site Resident Service Coordinator is a particularly valuable feature for seniors: a dedicated professional who connects residents to medical appointments, social services, and community programs. The solar panels, community garden, and accessible design — including roll-in showers, grab bars, and ADA-accessible parking — reflect a genuine commitment to residents’ independence and dignity. Located on Trumbull near Wayne State, residents have grocery stores, pharmacies, and cultural institutions all within walkable or one-bus distance. The property also accepts DHC Project-Based Vouchers.

📍 4500 Trumbull Avenue, Detroit, MI 48208
📞 Call: (313) 831-6440 — Mon, Wed & Fri 9 AM–5 PM
🌐 Visit: pvm.org/locations/the-village-of-university-meadows

Age 55+ Only Service Coordinator DDOT Bus Access ADA Accessible DHC PBV Accepted

Best West Side Senior Community

The Village of St. Martha’s

🏠 HUD Section 202 — West Detroit (Joy Road)

🧓 Age 62+ Required

✅ Rent: Income-based (HUD subsidized)

✅ Units: 1-Bedroom

✅ Beauty/barber shop on-site

✅ Fitness room, library, computer room

✅ Mini-theater & social events

✅ Community trips organized

✅ Maintenance-free living

✅ Presbyterian Villages of Michigan managed

Centrally located in West Detroit near Joy Road, The Village of St. Martha’s is a HUD Section 202 property — meaning it was built and funded specifically to serve low-income seniors and is not available to younger renters. The on-site beauty and barber shop is a feature many seniors prize: no need to arrange transportation for basic personal care. The mini-theater, library, computer room, and organized community trips reflect a philosophy that affordable housing should also be genuinely enjoyable housing. The property serves seniors aged 62 and older and has been praised by residents for its friendly staff and active community atmosphere. Managed by the trusted Presbyterian Villages of Michigan organization.

📍 15875 Joy Road (also listed as 15801 Joy Road), Detroit, MI 48228
📞 Call: (313) 582-8088 — Ask for Administrator Andrea Felice
📠 Fax: (313) 582-8085
🌐 Visit: pvm.org/locations/st-marthas

Age 62+ Only HUD Section 202 Beauty/Barber On-Site Mini-Theater West Detroit

Best Northwest Detroit Senior

Evangelical Manor

🏠 HUD Section 8 — National Church Residences — Northwest Detroit

🧓 Age 62+ Required

✅ Rent: Income-based (HUD Section 8)

✅ Units: 1-Bedroom apartments

✅ On-site Service Coordinator

✅ Shuttle bus for transportation

✅ Activities & events programming

✅ Companion care available

✅ Library on-site

✅ EHM Senior Solutions co-sponsored

Evangelical Manor is co-sponsored by EHM Senior Solutions and managed by National Church Residences, two of the most established senior housing nonprofits in Michigan. The shuttle bus is a game-changer for seniors without access to a car — organized transportation to shopping, medical appointments, and community activities removes one of the biggest barriers to independent living. The on-site service coordinator follows EHM’s holistic approach, regularly checking in with residents to ensure they have access to healthcare, social services, and personal support. Companion care services are available for residents who need limited assistance while maintaining their independence. Located on West Outer Drive in Northwest Detroit.

📍 6720 W. Outer Drive, Detroit, MI 48235
📞 Call: (313) 837-0450
🌐 Visit: ehmss.org/senior-living/affordable-housing
🌐 Also: senioraffordable.nationalchurchresidences.org

Age 62+ Only Shuttle Bus Service Coordinator Companion Care NW Detroit

Best Large HUD Senior Complex

Restoration Towers Senior Apartments

🏠 HUD-Subsidized Senior Community — Northwest Detroit (Lasher Rd)

🧓 Age 62+ Required or Physically Challenged

✅ Rent: HUD income-qualified (30% of income)

✅ Units: 147 total units

✅ Wide range of resident services

✅ Active senior community

✅ 98% occupancy — high demand property

✅ Independent living focused

⚠️ Call ahead — waiting list may apply

⚠️ Call to confirm current availability

Restoration Towers is one of Detroit’s largest dedicated HUD senior complexes, with 147 units serving active adults who meet HUD low-income qualifications. The property’s stated mission — to provide a worry-free community that fosters each resident’s independence — is reflected in its consistently high occupancy rate of 98%, which signals strong resident satisfaction and retention. Located on Lasher Road near Southfield in Northwest Detroit, the property offers a wide range of services tailored to the varying needs of older adults. This is a community where seniors age in place comfortably with appropriate support available as needs change. Contact the property directly to ask about current waiting list status.

📍 16651 Lasher Road, Detroit, MI 48219
📞 Call: (313) 538-0360

Age 62+ Only 147 Units 98% Occupancy Independent Living Northwest Detroit

Best Mixed Senior/Family HUD

Freedom Place Apartments

🏠 LIHTC + HUD Section 8 PBRA — Woodbridge Neighborhood

🧓 Senior Mid-Rise for Age 55+ / Also Family Units Available

✅ Rent: Income-based (LIHTC & Section 8)

✅ Units: 1, 2, and 3-Bedroom

✅ Elevator building for seniors

✅ AC, heating in all units

✅ Laundry in building

✅ On-site parking available

✅ Community room

✅ Near Wayne State & Motor City Casino

Freedom Place is a federally subsidized property in the Woodbridge neighborhood offering both a mid-rise senior section for adults 55 and better and separate family apartments. It is managed by Independent Management Services, headquartered in Fenton, Michigan, and carries a LIHTC Low-Income Housing Tax Credit designation alongside a Section 8 Project-Based Rental Assistance contract. The elevator access, on-site parking, laundry, community room, and central location minutes from Wayne State University and major medical facilities make it practical for daily independent living. The Woodbridge neighborhood is walkable and well-connected to DDOT bus service. Rent is accepted online or by mail, reducing in-person errands.

📍 1101 W. Warren Avenue (also 1240 W. Forest Ave.), Detroit, MI 48201
📞 Call: (313) 832-3060
🌐 Apply: homeconnect.detroitmi.gov (search Freedom Place)

Age 55+ Senior Section LIHTC + Section 8 Elevator Building Pay Rent Online Near Wayne State

Best Utilities-Included Value

Lee Crest Apartments

🏠 HUD-Subsidized Senior Community — New Center / Midtown Area

🧓 Senior Low-Income Housing

✅ Rent: 30% of monthly income

✅ Units: 1-Bedroom apartments

✅ Water, Heat & Garbage included

✅ Tenant pays electric only

✅ HUD-subsidized — federally verified

✅ New Center neighborhood

⚠️ Call to confirm current availability

Lee Crest Apartments on Second Avenue in the New Center area carries the significant advantage of utility inclusion: water, heat, and garbage are all covered in the rent. Residents pay only their electric bill, making monthly budgeting on a fixed Social Security income highly predictable. For a senior living alone, this can translate to total monthly housing costs of well under $500 including utilities, depending on income level. The New Center neighborhood near Henry Ford Hospital and Detroit Medical Center puts major medical resources within close reach. HUD verified and federally subsidized. Residents report paying 30% of their income toward rent — consistent with all HUD program standards.

📍 8711 Second Avenue, Detroit, MI 48202
📞 Call: (313) 873-2463

Water + Heat + Trash Included Electric Only Tenant Cost HUD Subsidized New Center Area Near Henry Ford Hospital

Best Near Hospital District

Medical Center Senior Village Apartments

🏠 HUD-Subsidized — Midtown Medical District

🧓 Senior-Designated HUD Property

✅ Rent: HUD income-based formula

✅ Midtown Medical District location

✅ Steps from Detroit Medical Center

✅ Steps from Wayne State University

✅ HUD-subsidized community

⚠️ Call for current unit availability

⚠️ Income verification required

For seniors who rely on frequent medical visits, Medical Center Senior Village Apartments offers a location advantage that no other property on this list can match: situated directly in the Midtown Medical District on Chrysler Drive, steps from Detroit Medical Center, Children’s Hospital of Michigan, and Wayne State University Medical School. This is the ideal property for seniors managing ongoing health conditions who need reliable access to specialists without lengthy transportation. The HUD-subsidized designation ensures rent is capped at 30% of adjusted income. Contact the property directly to inquire about waiting list status and available unit sizes.

📍 4701 Chrysler Drive, Detroit, MI 48201
📞 Call: (313) 965-9883

Medical District Location Detroit Medical Center Nearby HUD Subsidized Wayne State Nearby Senior Designated

Best East Side Senior Option

Gratiot Woods Cooperative Apartments

🏠 HUD-Subsidized Senior Cooperative — East Detroit (McClellan St)

🧓 Senior Low-Income HUD Cooperative

✅ Rent: HUD income-based

✅ Cooperative ownership structure

✅ HUD-subsidized — federally verified

✅ East Side Detroit location

✅ Resident-centered community model

⚠️ Call for waitlist and availability

Gratiot Woods Cooperative Apartments offers something uncommon in Detroit affordable housing: a cooperative structure. In a cooperative, residents collectively have a voice in property management decisions, fostering a stronger sense of community ownership and pride. HUD-subsidized and verified, rent is income-based at the standard 30% formula. Located on McClellan Street on Detroit’s East Side — an underserved area for quality senior affordable housing — Gratiot Woods fills an important geographic gap in the city’s senior housing network. The cooperative model tends to produce stronger neighbor relationships and longer-term community stability. Call for current availability and waiting list status.

📍 5500 McClellan Street, Detroit, MI 48213
📞 Call: (313) 267-4969

Cooperative Structure East Side Detroit HUD Subsidized Resident Voice in Management

Best DHC Senior 55+ New Property

Dr. Violet T. Lewis Village (formerly Meyers Senior)

🏠 DHC Project-Based Voucher — Age 55+

🧓 Age 55+ Required

✅ Rent: 30% of adjusted income (PBV)

✅ Units: Studio, 1 & 2-Bedroom

✅ Central AC in all units

✅ Refrigerator, Stove, Garbage Disposal

✅ Free parking & elevator

✅ Community room, Fitness room

✅ On-site management, Computer room

✅ DHC Project-Based Voucher program

Dr. Violet T. Lewis Village — formerly known as Meyers Senior Apartments — is a recently rebranded Detroit Housing Commission Project-Based Voucher property serving adults aged 55 and older. The studio, 1-bedroom, and 2-bedroom unit options give residents more flexibility than many senior communities that offer only one size. The community room, fitness room, and on-site computer room reflect a commitment to keeping residents active and connected. Free parking is a meaningful benefit for seniors who retain a vehicle. Central air conditioning in all units, a DHC-confirmed PBV subsidy, and on-site management create a stable and well-supported living environment. Apply directly through the Detroit Housing Commission’s Project-Based Voucher program portal.

📞 Call: (313) 270-9150
🌐 Apply: dhcmi.org (Project Based Vouchers — Dr. Violet T. Lewis Village)
📧 DHC Main Office: 2211 Orleans Street, Detroit, MI 48207

Age 55+ Only DHC PBV Program Studio / 1BR / 2BR Free Parking Fitness Room

Best Large LIHTC Community

Heritage Place at Magnolia

🏠 Low-Income Housing — Midtown / New Center

✅ Income-Qualified — Open to All Ages (Family & Senior)

✅ Rent: Income-restricted (LIHTC)

✅ Units: 88 low-income units

✅ Hours: Mon–Fri 9 AM–6 PM

✅ Large, established community

✅ Income and rent restrictions based on AMI

⚠️ Waiting list may apply

Heritage Place at Magnolia on 15th Street offers 88 low-income housing units in one of Detroit’s most connected neighborhoods. As a LIHTC property, rent is income-restricted based on Area Median Income — typically 30% to 60% AMI — and is not as deeply subsidized as a full HUD Section 8 PBV unit, but remains significantly below market rate. This is a practical option for seniors whose income may be slightly above the threshold for the most deeply subsidized properties but who still need affordable rent. The Midtown/New Center location puts residents near public transit, cultural attractions, and medical services. Office hours are weekdays 9 AM to 6 PM for in-person assistance.

📍 3701 15th Street, Detroit, MI 48208
📞 Call: (313) 832-7021
⏰ Office Hours: Monday–Friday 9:00 AM–6:00 PM

88 LIHTC Units All Ages Welcome Near New Center AMI-Restricted Rents

Best Resource Hub for Any Budget

Detroit Housing Commission & MSHDA — Your Full Housing Authority

🏦 Government Housing Authority — Citywide Programs & Full Waiting List Access

✅ Serves All Ages — Priority Placement for Seniors, Disabled, Veterans

✅ Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers

✅ Project-Based Voucher communities

✅ Public housing communities

✅ Family Unification Program (FUP)

✅ Family Self-Sufficiency Program

✅ Online waitlist application portal

✅ Walk-in assistance 9 AM–5 PM weekdays

✅ MSHDA statewide housing locator

The Detroit Housing Commission is the largest public housing agency in Michigan and the single most important resource for any person seeking affordable housing in Detroit. If you apply to no individual property yet, registering with DHC should be your first step. Their online portal at dhcmi.org allows you to apply to multiple Project-Based Voucher waiting lists simultaneously — legal and encouraged. The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) administers Housing Choice Vouchers statewide and maintains a Michigan Housing Locator with all participating landlords. Detroit Home Connect (homeconnect.detroitmi.gov) is the city’s official free search tool with real-time listings. Use the map buttons below to find a DHC office or walk-in assistance location near you.

📍 DHC Main Office: 2211 Orleans Street, Detroit, MI 48207
📞 DHC Main: (313) 877-8000 — Mon–Fri 8 AM–5 PM
📞 HUD Detroit Housing Services Hotline: (866) 313-2520
📞 MSHDA: (517) 373-8370
🌐 dhcmi.org • michigan.gov/mshda • homeconnect.detroitmi.gov
🌐 Michigan Housing Locator: michiganhousinglocator.com
☎️ Emergency / Immediate Help: Dial 2-1-1

Section 8 Vouchers Multiple Programs Walk-In Assistance Senior Priority Status Citywide Coverage

Sources: dhcmi.org Project-Based Voucher Program page (all DHC PBV properties, phone numbers, waitlist details); pvm.org (Village of University Meadows, Village of St. Martha’s — confirmed phone numbers and amenities); ehmss.org/senior-living/affordable-housing (Evangelical Manor contact and amenities); PublicHousing.com Detroit (Lee Crest 313-873-2463; Freedom Place 313-832-3060; Medical Center Senior Village 313-965-9883; Gratiot Woods 313-267-4969; Restoration Towers 313-538-0360; Heritage Place 313-832-7021); AffordableHousingOnline.com (Freedom Place LIHTC/PBRA status; Village of University Meadows details); DetroitMI.gov (Detroit Home Connect; MSHDA Housing Locator); HUD.gov/states/michigan (866-313-2520 hotline; income tier definitions); After55.com (58 senior income-restricted communities in Detroit)

💸 What You Need to Know About Detroit’s Affordable Housing Market

🏠 Income-Based Units in Detroit

13,900+

Federal housing data via AffordableHousingOnline.com. Detroit has more than 13,900 income-based apartments where rent is capped at 30% of your adjusted monthly income.

📉 Rental Vacancy Rate

~4%

Detroit’s rental vacancy rate is below the national average, meaning demand is high. Applying to multiple waiting lists simultaneously — which is legal — is the single most effective way to reduce your wait time.

💵 Average Voucher Holder Pays

~$300/mo

On average, Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher holders in Detroit contribute approximately $300 per month toward rent, with DHC paying the balance directly to the landlord, per AffordableHousingOnline.com.

🧓 Senior Communities Available

58+

Detroit has at least 58 income-restricted senior living communities per After55.com, ranging from age 55+ to age 62+ only designations. Many have on-site services and accessible features.

🚨 Watch Out: Common Affordable Housing Scams Targeting Seniors in Detroit

The FTC warns that housing scams are among the most prevalent frauds targeting older adults. Three red flags every Detroit renter must know:

No legitimate affordable housing property ever asks for cash upfront before showing you a unit. If someone asks for a cash deposit, application fee, or “processing fee” before you visit or sign any lease, stop contact immediately and report to the FTC at ReportFraud.FTC.gov.
Never send money to secure a spot on a waiting list. All legitimate waiting lists — including the Detroit Housing Commission’s — are free to apply to. Any request for payment to join or maintain your place on a waiting list is a scam.
Verify every property through official channels before providing personal information. Use Detroit Home Connect (homeconnect.detroitmi.gov) or call the Detroit Housing Commission at (313) 877-8000 to confirm a property is legitimate before sharing your Social Security number, income documents, or any personal information.

Sources: FTC Protecting Older Consumers 2024–2025 Report; ReportFraud.FTC.gov; DHC dhcmi.org (free waiting list applications confirmed); DetroitMI.gov Detroit Home Connect (official verification tool)

📋 Quick Comparison: All 12 Properties at a Glance

#	Property	Age Req.	Subsidy Type	Key Feature	Phone
1	City View Senior Towers	62+	DHC PBV	All utilities incl.	(313) 831-1725
2	Village of University Meadows	55+	LIHTC + DHC PBV	Service Coordinator	(313) 831-6440
3	Village of St. Martha’s	62+	HUD Sec. 202	Beauty shop, theater	(313) 582-8088
4	Evangelical Manor	62+	HUD Sec. 8	Shuttle bus	(313) 837-0450
5	Restoration Towers	62+	HUD Subsidized	147 units, 98% occupancy	(313) 538-0360
6	Freedom Place Apts.	55+	LIHTC + PBRA	Elevator, 1–3BR	(313) 832-3060
7	Lee Crest Apartments	Senior	HUD Subsidized	Water+heat+trash incl.	(313) 873-2463
8	Medical Center Senior Village	Senior	HUD Subsidized	Medical district loc.	(313) 965-9883
9	Gratiot Woods Cooperative	Senior	HUD Subsidized	Cooperative model	(313) 267-4969
10	Dr. Violet T. Lewis Village	55+	DHC PBV	Studio/1BR/2BR options	(313) 270-9150
11	Heritage Place at Magnolia	All Ages	LIHTC	88 units, 9 AM–6 PM	(313) 832-7021
12	DHC / MSHDA Hub	All Ages	All Programs	Multiple vouchers + listings	(313) 877-8000

Green = dedicated senior designation or strongest subsidy. Yellow = income-restricted but mixed-age or conditional. All phone numbers verified from official sources March 2026. Always call before visiting to confirm availability and waiting list status. Waitlist open status changes frequently.

❓ Detroit Affordable Housing Questions Answered Plainly

💡 How Do I Apply for Multiple Low-Income Apartments in Detroit at Once?

Apply through the Detroit Housing Commission’s online portal at dhcmi.org, which allows you to submit applications to multiple Project-Based Voucher waiting lists in a single session. You may also apply directly to individual properties using the phone numbers listed above — calling first is always recommended to confirm the waiting list is open and to receive the correct application form. Detroit Home Connect at homeconnect.detroitmi.gov lists all DHC-affiliated properties and many privately managed income-restricted buildings with current status. There is no limit to the number of waiting lists you may join simultaneously, and doing so is strongly encouraged by housing advocates. Keep a written record of every application with the date submitted.

💡 What Happens After I Submit a Waiting List Application?

After applying, you will receive a confirmation with your position number or expected contact timeline. It is critical to keep your contact information current — an application is typically removed from the waiting list if the property cannot reach you when your name is called. Call each property every 6 to 12 months to reconfirm your interest and update your phone number and address. When your name is selected, you will be contacted to complete a full eligibility verification — this includes income documentation, background check, and inspection of your current residence in some cases. Having your documents organized and current dramatically speeds this final step.

💡 Does My Social Security Income Count Against Me When Applying?

No — Social Security income is counted toward your income total but typically helps rather than hurts your application. Most low-income senior housing is designed specifically for people whose primary income is Social Security, SSI, or SSDI. A single person receiving $1,100 to $1,500 per month in Social Security income would typically fall within the “very low income” category (at or below 50% AMI) for the Detroit metro area, making them eligible for the most deeply subsidized housing. Other counted income sources include pension payments, annuity distributions, interest income, rental income, and regular gifts. Inform the property manager of all income sources — honest disclosure protects you legally.

💡 Can I Bring My Pet to a Low-Income Apartment in Detroit?

Pet policies vary significantly by property. HUD regulations require that all HUD-subsidized housing accept assistive animals and emotional support animals as a reasonable accommodation for people with disabilities — these are not classified as “pets” under federal law and cannot be refused. For companion animals without a documented disability accommodation, policies differ: some properties allow small pets with a deposit, others prohibit all pets. Always ask specifically about pet policy before applying if this matters to your decision. Medical Center Senior Village and several other properties listed here accept at least service animals. Heritage Place at Magnolia accepts dogs with restrictions. Get any pet approval in writing before signing your lease.

💡 What Accessible Features Should Seniors Look for When Touring an Apartment?

The most important accessibility features for seniors considering low-income housing are: (1) No-step entry — verify the unit entrance and building entrance are both step-free or served by an elevator. (2) Grab bars in the bathroom — confirmed at Village of University Meadows and several other DHC PBV properties. (3) Roll-in or walk-in shower — eliminates the trip-and-fall risk of stepping over a tub edge. (4) Emergency pull-cord or call system — a direct line to on-site help if you fall or experience a medical event. (5) Wide doorways (36 inches minimum) to accommodate wheelchairs or walkers. (6) Lever-style door handles rather than round knobs. Under the Fair Housing Act, landlords must allow residents with disabilities to make reasonable modifications to their unit at their own expense. Ask about this right at every property tour.

💡 What Resources Help With Moving Costs and First-Month Expenses?

Several Michigan and Detroit programs can cover moving costs and initial apartment expenses for low-income seniors. The Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) can help with deposits on utility accounts at a new address. Wayne County’s Human Services Department at (313) 224-5900 connects residents to emergency financial assistance programs for moving and first-month costs. 211 (dial 2-1-1 from any phone) connects you to the most current local resources including furniture banks, moving assistance nonprofits, and one-time rent assistance funds. Several Detroit churches and community organizations maintain emergency housing funds. The Michigan Aging & Adult Services Agency at (517) 241-4100 can direct seniors to area-specific help programs.

Sources: HUD.gov Fair Housing Act (reasonable modification rights; assistive animal accommodation requirements); Wayne County Human Services (313) 224-5900; MEAP Michigan Energy Assistance Program (michigan.gov/mdhhs); Michigan 211 dial 2-1-1; Michigan Aging & Adult Services Agency (517) 241-4100; dhcmi.org (online waitlist application instructions); Detroit Home Connect homeconnect.detroitmi.gov (official property listings)

📍 Find Affordable Apartments & Housing Resources Near You in Detroit

Allow location access when prompted for the most relevant results near your current location. Always call before visiting any property to confirm the waiting list is open and that accessible units are available.

Locating affordable housing options near you…

✅ Five Questions to Ask Every Property Before Applying

Is the waiting list currently open, and how long is the estimated wait? Waiting lists open and close frequently. Calling before applying saves you time and ensures your application goes to an active list. Ask for an estimate of the current wait period and how often you should call to check your status.
What is the exact income limit for my household size? Income limits vary by program type (Section 202, LIHTC at 30% AMI vs. 60% AMI, HCV) and household size. A single person’s limit differs from a two-person household. Get the current limit in writing or verified from the property’s current income chart before gathering documents.
What utilities am I responsible for, and what is the average monthly cost? Some properties include all utilities; others require tenants to establish and pay electric accounts directly. The difference between an all-inclusive unit and a utilities-separate unit can be $80 to $200 per month on your total housing cost.
What accessible features does the unit include? If you use a walker, wheelchair, or have balance concerns, specifically ask: Is there a step-free shower? Are grab bars installed? How wide are the doorways? Is there an emergency call system? Do not assume these features exist — confirm them before committing to an application.
Who do I call if I have a maintenance emergency at night or on weekends? A genuine emergency maintenance line is an important quality-of-life indicator. Properties with 24-hour emergency maintenance — including Village of University Meadows and several others on this list — provide meaningfully better security for seniors living alone than those with weekday-only maintenance availability.

🚨 Three Affordable Housing Situations That Are Not What They Appear

Properties listed online that are no longer accepting applications. Many websites including third-party listing aggregators do not update waiting list status in real time. Always call the property directly using the phone numbers on this list — not the phone number on a third-party site — to confirm the list is currently accepting new names.
LIHTC properties described as “income-based” but calculated differently from Section 8. LIHTC rents are set at a fixed percentage of Area Median Income (typically 30% or 60% AMI) and do not automatically adjust if your income drops. A Section 8 or HUD rent is always 30% of your actual income, regardless of how low that income falls. These produce very different affordability outcomes for seniors whose income is primarily Social Security.
Senior-labeled apartments with no actual age restriction or accessibility design. Some properties market themselves as “senior-friendly” without being age-restricted under HUD or LIHTC designations, meaning they may not have elevator access, grab bars, or emergency call systems. Always visit in person and request the property’s senior designation documentation (HUD 202, LIHTC senior set-aside, or project-based voucher preference for age 62+) before accepting a unit.

© BudgetSeniors.com — This guide is independently researched and written. We are not affiliated with, compensated by, or endorsed by any property, housing authority, or agency listed. All addresses, phone numbers, and program details are verified from official sources as of March 2026. Housing availability, waiting list status, and income limits change frequently — always confirm current details directly by calling the property or housing authority before submitting any application or personal documents. Detroit Housing Commission: dhcmi.org • Detroit Home Connect: homeconnect.detroitmi.gov • MSHDA: michigan.gov/mshda • HUD: hud.gov • Housing counseling: (800) 569-4287 • Emergency: Dial 2-1-1 • Fraud reporting: ReportFraud.FTC.gov

Primary sources: Detroit Housing Commission dhcmi.org (Project-Based Voucher program; property phone numbers; eligibility; 2026 Annual PHA Plan); HUD.gov/states/michigan (income limits; programs; (866) 313-2520 hotline); MSHDA michigan.gov/mshda (Section 8 HCV; Michigan Housing Locator; utility allowances); AffordableHousingOnline.com (13,908 income-based units; vacancy rate; voucher payment data); PublicHousing.com/city/mi-detroit (Lee Crest, Freedom Place, Medical Center Senior Village, Restoration Towers, Gratiot Woods — addresses and phones); Presbyterian Villages of Michigan pvm.org (University Meadows 313-831-6440; St. Martha’s 313-582-8088); EHM Senior Solutions ehmss.org (Evangelical Manor 313-837-0450); National Church Residences senioraffordable.nationalchurchresidences.org (Evangelical Manor confirmation); Detroit Home Connect homeconnect.detroitmi.gov (Freedom Place; University Meadows; St. Martha’s verified listings); After55.com (58 senior income-restricted communities in Detroit); FTC Protecting Older Consumers 2024–2025 Report (housing scam warnings); HUD Fair Housing Act (reasonable modification; assistive animal rights); Michigan Aging & Adult Services Agency (517) 241-4100

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