Independent Living Options for
People with Disabilities

Finding the Right Fit — For Now, or the Future

Independent living means different things to different people. For some, it’s about having privacy and personal space with just the right support. Finances can play a big role in which housing options are available — and that’s why a variety of programs and creative solutions exist to support different needs and budgets. The goal is to find a safe, comfortable place to call home — whatever that looks like for each person. Whether you’re navigating public housing waitlists, saving for a down payment, or just beginning to explore options — you’re not alone. We’re here to help you find information and support every step of the way.

What Does “Independent Living” Mean?

“Independent living” isn’t one specific type of housing — it’s a philosophy: the idea that people with disabilities have the right to live in the community with as much autonomy and choice as possible.

That could mean:

• Renting a subsidized apartment with a housing voucher

• Buying a home with family support

• Living in a shared apartment with support staff

• Moving into a specially designed independent living facility

• Staying at home with the goal of future transition

Every choice has its own benefits depending on care needs, budget, life stage, and personal goals.

1. Subsidized & Affordable Housing Programs

These programs are often a lifeline for people with disabilities who live on fixed or limited incomes.

🔹 Section 811 Supportive Housing for Persons with Disabilities

• HUD-funded housing for low-income adults with disabilities

• Includes built-in access to support services (like case management, transportation help, etc.)

• Often run by nonprofits or local housing authorities

Good fit for: Adults with low income who benefit from nearby services and community integration
 

🔹 Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program

• Rent subsidy that allows people to choose their own apartment in the private market

• The voucher covers part of the rent; the tenant pays the rest (usually 30% of income)

• Vouchers can be portable between cities or counties

Good fit for: Individuals or families who want flexibility and control over where they live
 

🔹 Public Housing

• Government-owned apartment buildings or complexes for low-income individuals and families

• Waitlists can be long, and accessibility features vary

Good fit for: People in need of very low-cost housing with some built-in supports

2. Shared Living / Supported Living Arrangements

These options often involve roommates, caregivers, or staff support — while still maintaining a person’s autonomy and dignity.
 

🔹 Shared Housing with Roommates

• Living with other people (disabled or non-disabled) to share costs and companionship

• May include coordinated support or rotating staff, depending on needs

Good fit for: People who want social connection, cost-sharing, or part-time support
 

🔹 Supported Living Services (SLS)

• You choose where and with whom you live, and receive personalized support services in your home

• Support can range from help with daily living to behavioral or medical support

• Funded in many states through Medicaid waivers

Good fit for: Individuals who want to live in their own home but need regular or occasional support
 

🔹 Adult Foster Homes / Group Homes

• Residential settings licensed by the state, with live-in or rotating staff

• Designed for those who need 24/7 care but still want a home-like environment

Good fit for: People with higher support needs who thrive in a smaller, community-based setting

3. Family-Purchased or Owned Housing

Some families choose to purchase a home, condo, or apartment for their loved one — often with legal and financial planning involved.

🔹 Independently Owned or Co-Owned Housing

• A home purchased by the individual or their family, possibly through a trust or legal entity

• Allows for long-term stability, choice of location, and control over accessibility features

Good fit for: Families with financial means looking for a long-term housing solution with legal protections

🔹 Special Needs Trusts and ABLE Accounts

• Can be used to pay for housing without affecting eligibility for SSI or Medicaid

• Important to involve a financial planner or attorney familiar with disability law

Good fit for: Planning for independence while preserving access to benefits.

Choosing What Works Best — For You

No two people have the same path to independent living. What’s right today might change in a few years. That’s okay.

As you explore housing options, consider:

• Level of support needed (daily, weekly, occasional)

• Desired location (close to family, work, transit)

• Financial resources (income, benefits, savings, trusts)

• Personal preferences (privacy, social connection, accessibility)

You don’t need to figure it all out at once — just the next step.