Affordable Housing

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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(PDF, 1MB)

Great jobs, great schools and an unbeatable location make Arlington a desirable community. However, this high demand puts increasing pressure on families, the elderly, persons with disabilities and others with limited financial resources to keep pace with increasing housing costs. The County’s commitment to Affordable Housing helps to address this challenge.

We support affordable housing by:

  • Providing financing and zoning incentives for developers
  • Working with local non-profits that finance and develop affordable housing
  • Providing rental assistance to low-income families

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)

Marbella housing with bike rake in view  

What is Affordable?

Learn more about affordable housing in Arlington and how the County works to support and maintain adequate housing options across all levels of the economic spectrum.

Learn more about Affordable Housing  

Two story red brick housing estate 

Multifamily Reinvestment Study

The Multifamily Reinvestment Study, which grew out of the Housing Conservation District study, seeks ways to stem the loss of market rate affordable housing in multifamily apartment communities. The study also addresses the need to support increased housing development Countywide. 

Learn more about the study 
Building entrance with balloons either side the door 

Affordable Housing Master Plan

The Affordable Housing Master Plan (AHMP) defines the County’s affordable housing policy and enables Arlington to respond to the current and future needs of residents of all levels of income in the County. The plan includes the context for affordable housing in Arlington, an analysis of current and future housing needs, and the affordable housing policy.

Learn more about the Plan

View with balcony railing in forefront and multistorey buildings in background lit at night time  Annual Reports

See progress of the three broad goals of the Affordable Housing Master Plan – supply, access, and sustainability – and how they work together to ensure that housing affordability and stability are part of Arlington’s vision to be a diverse and inclusive community.

Learn more 
Front view of red brick multi storey building  Affordable Housing Investment Fund

The County’s main financing program for affordable housing development has helped to create the majority of Arlington’s more than 6,500 affordable rental units that benefit low-income households. The Affordable Housing Investment Fund (AHIF) provides low-interest loans to affordable housing developers.

  Learn more about the Investment Fund