50% AMI Housing Lotteries NYC
Affordable housing for households earning 31–50% of Area Median Income — 2026 HUD income limits, typical rents, and how to find open lotteries.
What does 50% AMI mean?
50% AMI stands for 50% AMI of the Area Median Income. Under HUD guidelines, it means your household earns at or below 50% AMI of the median income for the metropolitan area. Qualifying for this income band gives you access to rent-stabilized affordable housing lotteries specifically reserved for very low income households.
Do I qualify?
- Your total household income must be below the 50% AMI maximum limits.
- Some lotteries also set a minimum income requirement.
- All adult household members' incomes are counted.
2026 Income Limits — 50% AMI
Maximum annual household income to qualify for 50% AMI lotteries (NYC metro area, 2026 HUD data). Income from all adult household members is counted.
| Household Size | Max Annual Income |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $47,250 |
| 2 persons | $54,000 |
| 3 persons | $60,750 |
| 4 persons | $67,450 |
| 5 persons | $72,850 |
| 6 persons | $78,300 |
Limits are based on 2026 HUD income data for the New York metro area. Some lotteries set minimums as well as maximums — always verify on NYC Housing Connect. View full AMI table →
About 50% AMI Affordable Housing
50% AMI is classified as "Very Low Income" by HUD and is one of the most commonly offered income bands in NYC Housing Connect lotteries. A single person earning up to $47,250 or a family of four earning up to $67,450 in 2026 qualifies at this level. Many HPD-financed and LIHTC developments include a significant portion of units at 50% AMI, making this band both widely available and fairly competitive. Rents at this level are substantially below market rate — a 1-bedroom at 50% AMI typically rents for around $1,000–$1,200/month, compared to $2,500+ at market rate in most NYC neighborhoods.
Who Typically Qualifies
Working-age adults earning under $47,250 (1 person), families of four earning under $67,450, and households receiving Section 8 or other housing assistance commonly apply at this band.
Programs That Include 50% AMI Units
- Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC)
- HPD Mandatory Inclusionary Housing (MIH)
- NYC 421-a Affordable Option
- Section 8 Project-Based Vouchers
Strategy for 50% AMI Applicants
Apply broadly across all boroughs at 50% AMI — this band has the widest selection of available units. Outer boroughs (Bronx, Queens, Staten Island) tend to have shorter wait times and less competition than Manhattan or prime Brooklyn neighborhoods.
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