What Is Workforce Housing? ...and Why You Might Qualify for it in Downtown Phoenix

When people think of affordable housing, they often believe it doesn’t apply to them. They might imagine it's only for families, people in severe financial hardship, or those living far outside of Downtown.

However, there’s another type of housing many people aren’t aware they may qualify for: workforce housing. 

If you work in healthcare, education, hospitality, retail, the arts, government, or other common professions, there’s a good chance you could be eligible.

So what is workforce housing?

Workforce housing is designed for people who are employed and earning a steady income, but who may still struggle to afford rising rental costs, especially in growing urban areas like Downtown Phoenix. 

It’s typically intended for individuals and households earning around 80% to 120% of the Area Median Income (AMI). 

That includes people such as: 

• Teachers 
• Nurses 
• First responders 
• Restaurant, hotel, and service workers 
• Office professionals 
• Artists and creatives
• City employees 
• Young professionals just starting out 
• And many others who keep our city running every day

In other words, it's housing for the workforce that makes Downtown work.

These apartments are often identical to market-rate housing. Workforce housing units can be found in some of the newest apartment complexes Downtown, in great locations and with luxury amenities, but at more affordable price points.

You might qualify more easily than you think. 

One of the biggest misconceptions about workforce housing is thinking, “I probably make too much to qualify.” 

Many people are surprised to learn that they actually do meet the income guidelines. 

Eligibility is usually based on household income and household size. For example, a single person, a couple, or a small family earning a moderate income may fall right into the qualifying range. The exact guidelines can also vary from property to property.

Unlike some programs that feel complicated or intimidating, most workforce housing properties have straightforward application processes and leasing teams who walk you through each step. 

If you love Downtown but rent feels just out of reach, or you work here and wish you could live closer, workforce housing is worth exploring.

Why workforce housing matters in Downtown Phoenix

Downtown Phoenix is growing with new jobs, residents, and energy every year. Workforce housing helps make sure that growth is inclusive. 

It enables the people who serve Downtown and shape its culture and character to also call it home. 

It supports:

• Shorter commutes 
• Stronger community connections 
• Local businesses 
• A vibrant, mixed income neighborhood 

It also helps Downtown remain a place where people from many walks of life can live, work, and thrive together. 

Where can you find workforce housing in Downtown?

Downtown Phoenix already has several workforce housing communities and is actively advocating for additional workforce housing units to meet the needs of the neighborhood. 

These communities are located throughout the Downtown area near light rail, jobs, restaurants, and cultural destinations. 

You can find a full, easy-to-navigate inventory of Downtown properties right from our website. Just toggle the “workforce housing” option to see a list of options. 

The best way to explore options is to call or email leasing offices directly and ask about workforce housing availability. 

And don’t be shy! Leasing teams expect these questions and are happy to help. 

A friendly nudge to explore your options

Workforce housing is about expanding opportunities to live Downtown.

If you like the idea of: 

• Walking to coffee shops 
• Taking light rail to work 
• Being close to events and arts 
• Living in a connected and growing neighborhood

...then workforce housing could be a great fit for you. 

And you might be closer to qualifying than you think! 

Downtown is for everyone

At Downtown Phoenix Inc., we believe and are working to ensure that anyone who wants to live Downtown can live Downtown. 

Workforce housing plays an important role in creating a Downtown that is: 

• Welcoming
• Diverse 
• Accessible 
• Full of the people who make it special 

If you are curious, we encourage you to explore your options, ask questions, and see what is available. If you have questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to DPI's Economic Development Manager, Braxton Hynes, at bhynes@dtphx.org.