There are many affordable rentals (income restricted) and senior housing units (ages 55+) within the City of Carlsbad. The list can be viewed here or as a map that shows the property locations. The listing also includes future affordable projects that are in the planning stages.

Each complex is privately managed and has its own application process, income restrictions and wait list.  Please contact each property for further information. 

The city requires new housing developments to set aside 15% of units as affordable or pay into a city fund which is used to develop future affordable housing. Affordable units are for qualified buyers from low-income households that will not be paying more than 35% of their income on housing costs for their new home.

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The City of Carlsbad has several programs designed to increase affordable housing opportunities for lower income households. The signature program is Carlsbad's mandatory inclusionary housing program. This program requires housing developers to provide 15% of their total units as affordable to low income households. Since this requirement was set forth by ordinance in 1993, the city has experienced the successful construction of over 2,000 units of housing affordable to low, very low and extremely low income households. Read more about this law in the City of Carlsbad Municipal Code section 21.85.

If you or someone you know is in need of immediate housing, please contact a member of the city's Homeless Outreach Team, who can assist with referrals to temporary shelters and other social services. The city has a Homelessness Action Plan that provides resources, social workers and other support for those experiencing homelessness in our community.

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