California Housing Assistance Programs
California offers down-payment assistance, emergency rental aid, and affordable housing programs through CalHFA, local housing authorities, and federally funded rental assistance. First-time buyers and low-income renters should start with CalHFA and their county housing agency.
CalHFA MyHome Assistance Program
MyHome is one of California's most widely used first-time buyer programs, pairing with CalHFA's below-market-rate first mortgages.
What it provides: Deferred-payment junior loan for down payment or closing costs
Assistance: Deferred loan with no monthly payments; due upon sale, refinance, or payoff of first mortgage.
Eligibility: Loan amount up to 3.5% of purchase price or appraised value, whichever is less.
Who may qualify:
- First-time homebuyers in California
- Borrowers using a CalHFA first mortgage
- Income within CalHFA program limits
Requirements:
- Homebuyer education certificate
- CalHFA-approved lender
- Minimum credit score per program
How to apply: Work with a CalHFA-approved lender to combine MyHome with a CalHFA FHA, VA, or conventional first loan.
Official source: CalHFA MyHome
California Emergency Solutions and Grants (ESG)
ESG is a federal program administered by California HCD to local homeless service providers. Availability depends on your county's allocated funds.
What it provides: Homeless prevention and rapid rehousing funds distributed to local continuums of care
Assistance: Short-term rental assistance, utility deposits, and case management.
Eligibility: Administered locally; income typically at or below 30% area median income for rapid rehousing.
Who may qualify:
- Households at risk of homelessness
- People experiencing homelessness
- Residents in participating California counties
Requirements:
- Documentation of housing crisis
- Case management participation
- Income verification
How to apply: Contact your local Continuum of Care or call 211 California for referral to an ESG-funded provider.
Official source: HCD ESG
Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program
California has over 100 PHAs administering vouchers. Waiting lists may open only periodically—sign up for notifications when lists reopen.
What it provides: Rental subsidies for low-income families in privately owned housing
Assistance: Tenant pays approximately 30% of adjusted income toward rent; voucher covers the remainder up to payment standard.
Eligibility: Income generally at or below 50% of area median income; most vouchers go to households at or below 30%.
Who may qualify:
- Very low-income California households
- U.S. citizens or eligible immigrants
- Households meeting PHA screening criteria
Requirements:
- Application to local Public Housing Authority
- Background check
- Landlord willing to accept voucher
How to apply: Apply to your city or county Public Housing Authority; many California PHAs maintain long waiting lists.
Official source: California HCD Section 8