Committed Affordable Units (CAFs)
Committed Affordable Units (CAFs) are reserved for households with low or moderate incomes that meet certain income requirements. Although the County does not have public housing, there are many privately owned apartment complexes with CAFs. Find a complete listing, including contact info for the management offices, here.
What are the income requirements?
Many units have a maximum income allowed that is equal to 60% of the area median income (AMI). The AMI varies by the number of people in the household. For example, 60% AMI for a one-person household is currently $68,880, and for a three-person household it is $88,560. Some properties have lower or higher AMI limits. Please contact the apartments to inquire about income requirements.
How do I apply?
Individuals interested in applying for CAFs should contact the on-site management office to learn about availability, whether the property maintains a waiting list, and the maximum income allowed.
Are you currently a CAF Resident?
Explore helpful information, services, and community resources designed to support residents in Arlington’s affordable housing communities. Learn more.
Committed Affordable Units (CAF) Experience Survey Analysis and Report now available.
County staff and community organization BUGATA presented the results of a survey in which more than 500 residents of committed affordable housing shared aspects of their experiences. The data collected will inform future policy decisions to enhance the quality of affordable housing in Arlington.
View the survey analysis and report here.
CAF Strategies Report
Arlington County is committed to helping ensure residents have safe and high-quality living environments. This document describes opportunities for Arlington County to strengthen its oversight of committed affordable unit (CAF) properties and provide improved tenant support as appropriate for its role in CAF communities. The document includes recommendations for long-term strategies and outlines staffing and resource needs, as well as projected timelines for implementation.
View the report here.
Printable version.
The County has adjusted its model since publishing the CAF Strategies report to enable more proactive oversight of CAF units and more intentional efforts to support residents living in CAFs. The April 2023 Report highlights some of the significant progress that has been made, and work that will continue through 2023 and beyond.
View the April 2023 Report here. (en español)