Affordable & Income-Based Housing in Berkeley

Affordability

Berkeley's median asking rent is $2,133 per month and the median household income is $108,092 per year, according to Census ACS 5-Year data (as of 2024). With 56% of residents renting, demand for affordable and income-restricted housing is significant, making Berkeley's 14 HUD-assisted and LIHTC properties an important resource for cost-burdened renters.

Safety

According to the Berkeley Police Department's data reported to the FBI Crime Data Explorer, Berkeley had a violent crime rate of 645 per 100,000 residents in 2024. Crime rates are not comparable across cities due to differences in reporting practices and definitions.

Getting Around Berkeley

The area around Berkeley's assisted properties scores well for walkability, transit, and biking, according to Walk Score.

• Walk Score: 84 - Very Walkable. Most errands can be accomplished on foot.
• Transit Score: 69 - Good Transit. Many nearby trips are practical by public transportation.
• Bike Score: 97. Biking is an exceptional option for getting around.

These scores reflect the area around the assisted properties in Berkeley, not any single address.

Schools

According to the NCES Common Core of Data, 1 district serves Berkeley with 18 public schools -- including 12 elementary, 3 middle, 2 high schools, and 1 other. Ratings vary by school, so renters should check the assigned schools for a specific address before making a housing decision.

Cost of Living

Berkeley is one of the more expensive rental markets in the Bay Area. The median household income is $108,092 per year and the median rent is $2,133 per month, according to Census ACS 5-Year data.

Affordable and income-based housing can make a meaningful difference for renters in this market. The 14 HUD-assisted and LIHTC properties in Berkeley offer 824 income-restricted units where rents are tied to your income rather than the open market rate.

Flood and Environmental Exposure

All 14 affordable housing properties in Berkeley were mapped for flood risk. None are located in a high-risk flood zone, according to HUD-assisted property flood data.