These terms are often used interchangeably, but they have different meanings. Here’s how to tell them apart.
Subsidized Housing #
- Directly funded by government programs (e.g. public housing, vouchers)
Affordable Housing #
- Rent is set based on income — usually 30% of AMI or less
- Can be privately owned but funded by public tools like LIHTC
Workforce Housing #
- Targets moderate-income workers (often 80–120% AMI)
- Usually not subsidized — just priced below market
? Pro Tip: Affordable housing includes subsidized housing, but not all affordable units are government-funded.