Housing Assistance for Seniors in Oregon

Last updated: December 01, 2025

If You Need Emergency Help

• Call 211: Dial 2-1-1 or visit the 211info housing page for emergency shelter, rental help, and utility assistance in your area: Get help via 211info.
• Facing eviction now? Get free legal help and know your rights through Oregon Law Help: OregonLawHelp.org – Housing/Eviction.
• Domestic violence or unsafe home? Contact the Oregon DV/SA hotline 24/7 at 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE) or visit Call to Safety (Portland area) and Oregon Coalition Against Domestic & Sexual Violence.
• Aging & Disability Resource Connection (ADRC): Call 1-855-673-2372 or visit ADRC of Oregon for local senior services, housing navigation, and benefits screening.
• If utilities are about to be shut off, contact your utility immediately and ask about hardship programs, then call your local Community Action Agency through OHCS Energy & Weatherization or 211.

Key Takeaways

• You have multiple paths to affordable housing in Oregon: Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers, subsidized senior apartments (HUD Section 202 and multifamily), USDA rural rentals, and local nonprofit housing.
• For homeowners 62+, there are repair grants/loans (USDA Section 504), weatherization, and a state property tax deferral program; always confirm the latest program status and rules.
• Most rental and utility help flows through local Community Action Agencies, Area Agencies on Aging, and 211info—start there if you’re unsure where to begin.
• Long-term care and assisted living costs may be helped by Oregon Medicaid (Oregon Health Plan) for those who qualify; housing waitlists still exist and can be long.
• Protect your rights. Oregon bans discrimination in housing, including against age, disability, sexual orientation, and gender identity. If something feels off, reach out for help fast.

What This Guide Covers

This guide focuses on housing assistance for seniors in Oregon, including rental help, affordable senior housing, home repairs, property tax relief, utility support, and special options for veterans, LGBTQ+ seniors, rural and tribal seniors, and seniors with disabilities. We link directly to official state, federal, and nonprofit resources so you can apply or get help immediately.

How to Start: A Simple 3-Step Plan

1. Call ADRC or 211 to get a quick screening and referrals:
   • ADRC: 1-855-673-2372 | ADRC of Oregon
   • 211: Dial 2-1-1 | 211info housing
2. Apply to at least two types of affordable housing at the same time:
   • Your local Housing Authority for Section 8 and public housing
   • HUD-subsidized senior apartments (apply directly to properties)
   • USDA rural rental properties (if outside major metro areas)
3. If you own your home or need help staying put:
   • Ask about utility help (LIHEAP/OEAP), weatherization, repairs (USDA 504), and property tax deferral for seniors.

Quick Program Snapshot (Where to Apply & Who It Helps)

Reality check: Availability, waitlists, and funding vary. Always verify current status on the official program page before applying.

1) Affordable Rentals and Vouchers

Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher (HCV)

• What it is: A federal voucher that helps pay rent for low-income households. You find a unit in the private market that accepts vouchers.
• Why it matters for seniors: Lets you choose a unit that fits your needs (ground-floor, elevator, close to doctors). If your income changes, your share of rent adjusts.
• How to apply: Apply at your local Public Housing Authority (PHA). Each PHA sets its own application process and waitlists. Use the HUD locator to find PHAs and affordable properties: HUD Resource Locator.
• What to expect: Waitlists can be long (months to years). Some PHAs offer preferences for seniors, people with disabilities, veterans, or those who live/work locally.

Learn more about vouchers from HUD: HUD HCV program overview.

Tip: Apply to multiple PHAs you reasonably could live under. Keep your contact information current or you can lose your spot.

Public Housing

• What it is: Apartments owned by PHAs with income-based rent.
• How it works: Rents are generally set at 30% of adjusted income. Seniors often get priority in senior-designated buildings.
• Apply: With your local PHA. Use the HUD Resource Locator.

HUD Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly

• What it is: Subsidized apartments for adults 62+ with on-site or coordinated services (like service coordination, activities, referrals).
• Apply directly at each property: Find properties using HUD Resource Locator. Search for “Elderly” properties in Oregon.
• Reality check: Units are limited. If there’s a waitlist, ask about average wait time and how they contact applicants.

Other Affordable Senior Apartments (LIHTC, HUD Multifamily)

• Many Oregon apartments are affordable because they were built with tax credits or federal loans. Rents are below market and often income-restricted.
• How to find: Use HUD Resource Locator and your local Housing Authority websites. Also check nonprofit developers like REACH Community Development, Northwest Housing Alternatives, and Home Forward (Portland).

USDA Rural Rental Housing (Section 515/521)

• Best for rural towns and small cities. Many properties have rental assistance that caps rent at 30% of income.
• Search for units in your county or town: USDA Rural Development – Multi-Family Property Search.
• Tip: These can have shorter waits than big-city properties. Ask about rental assistance availability.

2) Short-Term Rent Help, Deposits, and Eviction Prevention

Most emergency rent and deposit help in Oregon is handled locally by Community Action Agencies (CAAs), counties, and nonprofits. Funding opens and closes based on availability.

• Start here: 211info housing or the state’s energy/rent provider lists at OHCS – Energy & Weatherization.
• County and city programs: Some counties run eviction prevention funds and rapid rehousing through local agencies. 211 can route you.

Know your rights and timelines:

• Oregon’s eviction rules change periodically. Get current information from OregonLawHelp.org and Oregon State Courts – Landlord/Tenant.
• If you receive a termination or nonpayment notice, contact legal help right away: Legal Aid Services of Oregon and Oregon Law Center.

3) Utility Bills, Weatherization, and Home Energy

LIHEAP (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program)

• What it is: Federal help for heating and cooling bills (electric, gas, oil, wood, etc.). Priority often given to seniors and people with disabilities.
• How to apply: Through local providers listed by Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS).
• Start at: OHCS Energy Assistance – LIHEAP.

Oregon Energy Assistance Program (OEAP)

• What it is: State-funded help for electric bills for customers of investor-owned utilities (e.g., Pacific Power, Portland General Electric).
• Learn more and find providers: Oregon PUC – OEAP.

Weatherization Assistance

• What it is: Free energy-saving improvements (insulation, air sealing, furnace repair/replacement if health and safety reasons) for eligible households.
• Why it matters: Lowers bills and makes homes safer and more comfortable—important for aging in place.
• Apply via local agencies listed here: OHCS Weatherization.

Reality check: Funding is limited and work is prioritized by health/safety and energy burden. Wait times can be months.

4) Homeowners: Repairs, Modifications, and Property Taxes

USDA Section 504 Home Repair (Grants & Loans)

• Who qualifies: Very low-income homeowners. Grants are specifically for homeowners age 62+ to remove health or safety hazards; loans (1% interest) are available for broader repairs.
• What you might get: Grants up to the program cap and low-interest loans up to the program cap (verify current amounts on USDA’s site).
• Apply: USDA Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants (Section 504).
• Tip: If you’re rural, ask your local USDA office and Community Action Agency for help with the application.

State and Local Home Repair Programs

Programs vary by county/city and nonprofit. Look for:

• Rebuilding Together affiliates (critical home repairs and accessibility): Rebuilding Together – Find an Affiliate and search Oregon.
• Habitat for Humanity Critical Home Repair (varies by affiliate): Habitat for Humanity Oregon.
• NeighborWorks and Community Development nonprofits (for rehab loans/grants): Examples include NeighborWorks Umpqua and Proud Ground for ownership stabilization services.

Always confirm eligibility and open funding on each organization’s website.

Home Modifications via Medicaid or Aging Programs

• Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid) may cover certain home modifications if they are part of a long-term services plan (e.g., ramps, grab bars) for eligible seniors.
• Explore: ODHS Seniors & People with Disabilities – Long-term services and supports.
• Oregon Project Independence (OPI) can offer in-home supports for non-Medicaid-eligible older adults; services vary by area: ODHS – Oregon Project Independence.

Property Tax Deferral for Seniors

• The Oregon Department of Revenue offers a deferral program that allows qualifying homeowners 62+ to postpone property tax payments. A lien is placed on the property and interest accrues; taxes are repaid when the home sells or ownership changes.
• Eligibility includes income and asset limits and other criteria. Some mortgages (like reverse mortgages) may affect eligibility.
• Details and applications: Oregon Department of Revenue – Senior and Disabled Property Tax Deferral.

Reality check: Deferral helps cash flow but increases what’s owed later. Review the program guide and consider talking with a counselor or trusted advisor.

5) Long-Term Care and Assisted Living Affordability

• Oregon’s Medicaid (Oregon Health Plan) may help pay for nursing homes and some community-based settings (adult foster homes, assisted living, memory care) if you meet income, asset, and care-level criteria.
• Start with your local ADRC/Area Agency on Aging or ODHS office for screening and options counseling.
• Learn more: ODHS – Long-term services and supports and ADRC of Oregon.

Tip: Even if you’re over income, Oregon may have “spend down” or other pathways. Ask ADRC or a Medicaid caseworker about current rules.

6) Fair Housing, Tenant Rights, and Avoiding Scams

• Housing discrimination is illegal. Oregon protects against discrimination based on age, disability, race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, source of income (including vouchers), and more.
• File a complaint or get help: Fair Housing Council of Oregon and Oregon BOLI – Housing Discrimination.

Scam warnings:

• No landlord or agency should charge you to apply for a free government program. Application fees for rentals are allowed but must follow Oregon rules.
• Never pay rent or a deposit in gift cards or wire transfers. If something feels wrong, pause and ask 211 or Legal Aid.

Comparison Tables

Table 1. Affordable Housing Options for Oregon Seniors

Table 2. Help to Stay in Your Home (Owners & Renters)

Table 3. Home Repair and Modification Options for Seniors

Table 4. Special Groups: Where to Look First

7) How to Find and Apply for Affordable Senior Housing in Oregon

1. Make a shortlist of areas where you can realistically live (near doctors/family and transit).
2. Apply to:
   • Your local Housing Authority (for vouchers and public housing).
   • At least 5–10 HUD-subsidized or LIHTC senior properties. Use the HUD Resource Locator.
   • USDA rural rentals if you’re outside major metros: USDA rental map.
3. Keep paperwork ready: ID, Social Security or ITIN, income proof (Social Security award letter, pension, benefits), bank statements, disability verification if applicable, and rental history.
4. Track waitlists. If you move or change phone number/email, update each list. Missed mail can drop you from a list.
5. Ask about preferences: Some properties prioritize local residents, seniors, disability, or veterans.

Tip: If online applications are hard, call the property or PHA and ask for a paper application or in-person assistance. Libraries and ADRC can help too.

8) Special Focus: Inclusivity & Tailored Resources

LGBTQ+ Seniors

• Anti-discrimination protections cover sexual orientation and gender identity in Oregon: Oregon BOLI – Housing Rights.
• Community and housing navigation: SAGE Metro Portland (Friendly House).
• If you face discrimination, contact the Fair Housing Council of Oregon or BOLI to file a complaint.

Veteran Seniors

• HUD-VASH vouchers combine rental assistance with VA case management. Start with your VA social worker or local VA facility. Learn more: U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs – Homeless Programs.
• SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families) offers rapid rehousing and prevention. Find providers: SSVF Providers Directory.
• ODVA’s state home loan program (for eligible veterans): ODVA Home Loans.
• Property tax relief for disabled veterans: Oregon Dept. of Revenue – Disabled Veteran Exemption.

Seniors with Disabilities

• Call ADRC for benefits screening and housing with accessibility features: ADRC of Oregon.
• Medicaid long-term services may include home modifications; contact ODHS: ODHS – Seniors & People with Disabilities.
• Request reasonable accommodations from landlords (e.g., grab bars) under fair housing laws: Fair Housing Council of Oregon.

Tribal Members and Alaska Natives in Oregon

• Many tribes in Oregon operate housing programs funded through NAHASDA. Contact your tribe’s housing authority or start with HUD’s Northwest Office of Native American Programs: HUD ONAP – NWONAP.
• OHCS Tribal Relations can help connect to state resources: OHCS – Tribal Relations.

Rural Seniors

• Look first at USDA rural rentals and the Section 504 repair program:
  • Rentals: USDA Multi-Family Rentals
  • Repairs: USDA Section 504
• Many rural Community Action Agencies can also help with utilities and weatherization. Check OHCS Energy Assistance for your local provider.

9) Resources by Region: Housing Authorities and Key Agencies

Note: Always check each site for current waitlist status and application instructions.

• Portland/Multnomah County: Home Forward (Housing Authority)
• Washington County: Housing Services – Washington County
• Clackamas County: Housing Authority of Clackamas County
• Marion County & Salem: Salem Housing Authority and Marion County Housing Authority
• Lane County/Eugene-Springfield: Homes for Good
• Jackson County/Medford: Access Housing (with local partners) and Housing Authority of Jackson County
• Deschutes/Jefferson/Crook (Central Oregon): Housing Works
• Yamhill County: Housing Authority of Yamhill County
• Linn & Benton Counties: Linn-Benton Housing Authority
• Douglas County: Housing Authority of Douglas County
• Klamath & Lake Counties: Klamath Housing Authority
• Columbia, Clatsop, Tillamook: Northwest Oregon Housing Authority
• Hood River, Wasco, Sherman, Gilliam, Morrow: Columbia Gorge Housing Authority
• Coos & Curry Counties: Housing Authority of Coos-Curry
• Josephine County: Housing Authority of Josephine County
• Umatilla, Morrow: Umatilla County Housing Authority (verify current URL via HUD locator if link changes)
• Malheur County: Housing Authority of Malheur County
• Northeast Oregon (Baker, Grant, Harney, Union, Wallowa): Check via HUD Resource Locator for the most current contacts.

Statewide directories:

• Find affordable apartments and PHAs: HUD Resource Locator
• Community Action network: CAPO – Find Your Local Agency
• Energy/weatherization providers: OHCS – Energy & Weatherization
• ADRC/AAA by county: ADRC of Oregon

10) Realistic Tips to Strengthen Your Application

• Ask for preferences: Many PHAs and properties offer priority for seniors, veterans, people with disabilities, or those who live/work in the area.
• Request reasonable accommodations: If you need help with the process (extra time, accessible communications), ask the PHA/property in writing.
• Prepare references: Prior landlords or case managers can help if your rental history is thin.
• Credit or background issues: Be upfront. Provide context letters and references. Some subsidized properties are more flexible than market rentals.
• Don’t wait for one list: Cast a wide net. Apply to multiple properties and agencies.

11) Finding Help if English Isn’t Your First Language

• Most agencies can arrange interpreters. State services offer free language assistance.
• You can also ask for documents in your preferred language. If turned down, contact ADRC or the Fair Housing Council of Oregon for help.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I know if I qualify for Section 8 or senior apartments?
   Eligibility mainly depends on income, household size, age (for senior buildings), and immigration status rules. Check your local PHA’s income limits and property rules via the HUD Resource Locator.
2. Are Section 8 waitlists open in Oregon right now?
   Openings change often. Each Housing Authority sets its own schedule. Check each PHA’s website regularly or call. Use the HUD Resource Locator to find PHAs.
3. What if I can’t afford my electric bill this month?
   Call your utility first to ask about payment plans. Then apply for LIHEAP/OEAP through local providers listed here: OHCS Energy Assistance. Also call 211.
4. Can Medicaid help pay for assisted living?
   Possibly. Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid) covers long-term services for eligible seniors in certain settings. Contact ADRC or ODHS to be screened: ODHS Seniors & People with Disabilities.
5. I own my home but it needs repairs. Any grants for seniors?
   Yes. USDA Section 504 offers repair grants to homeowners 62+ who qualify, and 1% loans for others. Start here: USDA Section 504. Also check local nonprofits like Rebuilding Together and Habitat affiliates.
6. What is the Oregon property tax deferral program for seniors?
   It lets qualifying homeowners 62+ defer property taxes until the home is sold or ownership changes. Interest accrues. Learn more and see current rules: Oregon Dept. of Revenue – Deferral.
7. I’m getting evicted. Where do I start?
   Contact Legal Aid immediately: OregonLawHelp.org. Call 211 to ask about emergency rent help and mediation, and check your county court’s landlord-tenant resources: Oregon State Courts.
8. I’m a veteran. How can I get housing help fast?
   Ask about HUD-VASH vouchers and SSVF rapid rehousing via the VA. Start with the VA homeless programs page: VA – Homeless Veterans, and contact your local VA medical center social work team.
9. I live in a small town. Are there options besides moving to a city?
   Yes. USDA rural rentals may have vacancies, and USDA 504 can help with needed repairs. Search rentals here: USDA Multi-Family Rentals.
10. Are there housing options for LGBTQ+ seniors?
    Yes. While there are few LGBTQ+-specific properties, Oregon laws protect you from discrimination. Contact SAGE Metro Portland and Fair Housing Council of Oregon for guidance.
11. Can I apply if I don’t have internet access?
    Yes. Call the property or PHA to request a paper application or appointment. ADRC (1-855-673-2372) and libraries can also help.
12. Where can I find a list of senior apartments in my county?
    Use the HUD Resource Locator to search for “Elderly” properties, call your local PHA, and ask ADRC for a regional list.

Resources (Official and Verified)

• Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) – Main: OHCS Home
• HUD Resource Locator (find affordable housing and PHAs): resources.hud.gov
• USDA Rural Rentals (property search): USDA rental map
• USDA Section 504 Home Repair: USDA 504 program
• OHCS Energy Assistance (LIHEAP/OEAP): Energy help
• OHCS Weatherization Assistance: Weatherization
• Oregon PUC – OEAP: OEAP overview
• ADRC of Oregon (find your AAA): ADRC
• Oregon Dept. of Revenue – Senior & Disabled Property Tax Deferral: Deferral program
• ODHS – Seniors & People with Disabilities (Medicaid LTSS): ODHS SPD
• Oregon Law Help (tenant rights/evictions): OregonLawHelp.org
• Legal Aid Services of Oregon: lasoregon.org
• Fair Housing Council of Oregon: fhco.org
• Oregon BOLI – Housing Discrimination: BOLI Housing
• SAGE Metro Portland (Friendly House): SAGE
• VA – Homeless Programs (HUD-VASH/SSVF): VA Homeless Veterans
• ODVA – Home Loans & Benefits: ODVA
• OHCS – Tribal Relations: Tribal Relations
• HUD ONAP – Northwest (tribal housing): NWONAP
• Community Action Partnership of Oregon (find your CAA): CAPO Directory
• 211info (housing help): 211 Housing

Disclaimer

Program rules, income limits, funding availability, and contacts can change at any time. Always confirm details with the official agency or program before applying. This guide is informational and not legal or financial advice.

About This Guide

by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team

The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.

Our Commitment to You:

• Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
• Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
• Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.

While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.

• Last Updated: August 2025
• Sources Verified: August 2025
• Next Review: February 2026

If you find outdated information, discover new resources, or have questions, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. We’re here to help seniors find resources that can make a real difference in their daily lives.