Affordable Housing

A green and white apartment building

Finding affordable housing in the Bay Area is an ongoing challenge that affects people from all walks of life, and Palo Alto is no exception. With a thriving job market and desirable location, the Bay Area has become one of the most expensive housing markets in the country. As a result, many people struggle to find affordable housing in the area. 

One of the main challenges of finding affordable housing in the Bay Area is the limited supply. Another challenge is the high cost of living, which can make it difficult for low- and middle-income individuals and families to afford housing. Many individuals who work in the Bay Area are forced to commute long distances because they cannot afford to live near their work, which can have a negative impact on their quality of life and on the environment. 

Finding affordable housing in the Bay Area can be difficult, however, there are resources available to help individuals and families navigate this process. The City partners with several service providers that offer affordable housing in the community; learn more below. 

Affordable Housing Resources 

Alta Housing: Alta Housing's mission is to create stronger, more diverse communities by providing and maintaining high-quality affordable housing where individuals and families thrive. Alta Housing manages over 20 Palo Alto specific housing locations and other housing in surrounding communities including Redwood City and Mountain View. Call (650) 321-9709 or visit Alta Housing's website for more information.  

Community Housing Developers: Community Housing Developers is one of the most well-established affordable housing providers in Palo Alto. Call (408) 279-7657 or visit Community Housing Developers' website for more information.  

Eden Housing: Eden Housing has more than 50 years of experience tackling affordable housing from all angles. Call (510) 582-1460 or visit Eden Housing's website for more information.  

HIP Housing: HIP Housing is a non-profit organization that creates a place to call home for thousands of people in San Mateo County. Call (650) 348-6660 or visit HIP Housing's website for more information. 

HomeFirst: HomeFirst is a leading provider of housing services; prevention, outreach, shelter, interim, and permanent housing programming for individuals who are housing insecure or unhoused in the Bay Area. Call (408) 539-2100 or visit HomeFirst's website for more information

Housing Authority, Santa Clara County: SCCHA's mission is to provide and inspire affordable housing solutions to enable low-income people in Santa Clara County to achieve financial stability and self-reliance. Call (408) 275-8770 or visit SCCHA's website for more information. 

Housing Industry Foundation: HIF creates direct and immediate impact with a focus on homelessness prevention for families in need through emergency financial support, access to affordable housing, and the renovation of community shelters and transitional living homes. Call (650) 437-2980 or visit HIF's website for more information.

Mid Pen Housing: Mid Pen Housing's mission is to provide safe, affordable housing of high quality to those in need and to establish stability and opportunity in the lives of our residents. Call (650) 356-2900 or visit Mid Pen Housing's website for more information.  

Stevenson House: The purpose of Stevenson House is to provide housing to seniors who require low-income housing. Call (650) 494-1944 or visit Stevenson House's website for more information. 

Affordable Housing Local Map

This map displays affordable housing properties and projects managed by the above organizations. Please contact each property manager directly for more information. Learn More About Housing Projects in Palo Alto here.