Housing Assistance Resources in Arizona

Last updated September 10, 2026

Arizona residents facing housing instability — whether dealing with eviction, unaffordable rent, homelessness, or unsafe living conditions — have access to a range of federal and state-administered programs. The first step for most people is calling 2-1-1 Arizona, a free, 24/7 helpline that connects callers to local rental assistance, shelter openings, utility help, and other social services across the state. You can call or text 211, or visit 211arizona.org.

For those experiencing homelessness or at imminent risk, HUD funds a network of Continuum of Care (CoC) programs throughout Arizona — including in Maricopa, Pima, and rural counties — that coordinate emergency shelter, transitional housing, and permanent supportive housing. Your local CoC can be reached through 2-1-1 or through the HUD Exchange. Federally subsidized housing through HUD's Housing Choice Voucher Program (commonly called Section 8) is administered locally by public housing authorities; waitlists are common, so it's important to apply as early as possible.

Arizona's housing challenges are particularly acute in fast-growing urban areas and in rural and tribal communities with limited inventory. Regardless of where you live in the state, 2-1-1 Arizona is the most reliable single point of entry to find what is currently available near you, since program availability and funding change frequently. The programs listed below are a starting point — a case manager or social worker can help you navigate eligibility and applications.

Key programs in Arizona

2-1-1 Arizona

Connects Arizona residents to local emergency rental assistance, shelter, food, utility help, and other social services statewide. Operated by the Arizona Alliance for Community Services.

How to access: Call or text 211, available 24/7 in multiple languages. You can also search the online database at 211arizona.org. Especially useful for finding currently funded rental assistance programs, which change frequently.

HUD Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8)

Federally funded rental assistance that subsidizes a portion of rent for eligible low-income individuals and families in privately owned housing. Administered locally by Arizona's public housing authorities (PHAs), such as the Housing Authority of Maricopa County and the Tucson Housing Authority.

How to access: Contact your local public housing authority directly to apply or get on a waitlist. Find your local PHA through the HUD website at hud.gov or call HUD at 1-800-955-2232. Be aware that waitlists can be long; apply to multiple PHAs if possible.

Arizona Department of Housing (ADOH)

The state agency overseeing affordable housing programs in Arizona, including administration of federal HOME and Community Development Block Grant funds, the Low Income Housing Tax Credit program, and coordination of state-level rental assistance efforts.

How to access: Visit azhousing.gov or call ADOH at (602) 771-1000. ADOH can direct you to funded local nonprofits and community action agencies administering rental or utility assistance in your area.

VA Homeless Veterans Programs

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers several programs for veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness in Arizona, including HUD-VASH (a voucher program pairing housing assistance with VA case management), the SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families) program for rapid rehousing and prevention, and VA transitional housing.

How to access: Veterans can call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 1-877-4AID-VET (1-877-424-3838), available 24/7. You can also contact the Phoenix VA Health Care System or Southern Arizona VA Health Care System, or ask 2-1-1 to connect you to a local SSVF provider.

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) — Arizona

Federally funded utility assistance that helps eligible low-income Arizona households pay heating and cooling bills, reducing the risk that unaffordable energy costs force families from their homes. Administered in Arizona through the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) and local community action agencies.

How to access: Apply through the Arizona DES by visiting des.az.gov or calling 1-800-582-5706. You can also apply through a local community action agency — call 2-1-1 to find the one serving your county. Funding is limited and seasonal, so apply early.

Housing Assistance resources for Arizona

211 Housing & Shelter

Nationwide

Local shelter, rental, and housing assistance referrals. Dial 211.

Visit

HUD Housing Counseling

Nationwide

Free HUD-approved housing counseling on rent, foreclosure, homelessness, and fair housing.

Visit

National Low Income Housing Coalition

Nationwide

Resources and local referrals for affordable housing and rental assistance.

Visit