Affordable & Income-Based Housing in San Jose

Affordability

San Jose has a median gross rent of $2,669 per month and a median household income of $146,427, with 44% of households renting their homes, according to Census ACS 5-Year data (2024). Against that market backdrop, the 4,098 income-restricted units across 36 HUD-assisted and LIHTC properties in the city represent an important source of below-market housing for eligible renters.

Safety

According to FBI Crime Data Explorer, the San Jose Police Department reported a violent crime rate of 611 per 100,000 residents in 2024. Crime rates are not directly comparable across cities due to differences in reporting practices and definitions.

Getting Around San Jose

According to Walk Score, assisted properties in San Jose average a Walk Score of 88 (Very Walkable), a Transit Score of 56 (Good Transit), and a Bike Score of 83. These scores reflect conditions in the areas around the assisted properties tracked on this page.

Schools

San Jose is served by 234 schools across 60 districts, including 144 elementary, 41 middle, and 49 high schools, according to NCES Common Core of Data. Ratings vary by school and district, so renters should check the assigned schools for a specific address.

Cost of Living

San Jose is one of the more expensive rental markets in the country. According to Census ACS 5-Year data (as of 2024), the median household income is $146,427 annually, yet the median asking rent reaches $2,669 per month -- a significant share of income for households at the lower end of the earnings spectrum.

Affordable and income-based housing can help bridge that gap. Lease Lantern tracks 36 HUD-assisted or income-restricted properties in San Jose, covering 4,098 units with rents tied to income rather than market rates.

Flood and Environmental Exposure

All 36 HUD-assisted properties in San Jose were mapped for flood risk. None are located in a high-risk flood zone, according to HUD flood data.