Our Programs

The Sault Ste. Marie Housing Commission manages and maintains 263 rentals as part of the affordable housing program through HUD. These rentals are scattered throughout the city of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. 

Eligible households are given an opportunity to live in one of our units and will pay no more than 30% of their monthly adjusted income for rent. Applicants must meet our screening criteria prior to placement in a rental. 

To be eligible for admission to the Sault Ste. Marie Housing Commission, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Rentals are available to individuals who are 18 years or older and meet the application requirements. 
• All household income and assets must be reported to the Sault Housing Commission for the purpose of calculating income and determining eligibility. 
• Gross income from all sources may not exceed the standards set by the federal government. 
• Tenants are provided a utility allowance for utilities they must contract for and pay. 

Income Guidelines

Listed below are the maximum income limits based on family size for Public Housing in Chippewa County:

• 1-person household: $48,100
• 2-person household: $55,000
• 3-person household: $61,850
• 4-person household: $68,700
• 5-person household: $74,200
• 6-person household: $79,700
• 7-person household: $85,200
• 8-person household: $90,700

Updated: May 1, 2025

As vouchers become available, eligible households are required to find their own housing in the private market. These rentals must meet the program's housing quality standards and landlords must be willing to participate in the program. Under the Section 8 program, tenants pay generally between 30-40% of their monthly adjusted income for rent. 

Households receiving rental assistance must sign a lease for a minimum of one year. Only one lease is allowed for a tenant receiving assistance. Additionally, whether you remain where you live now or move to a new rental, your housing must meet the following two requirements: The total cost of rent plus utilities must be within subsidy standards and the rental must be in decent, safe, and sanitary condition. 

The Housing Commission will inspect the unit to ensure it meets HUD's Housing Quality Standards initially to qualify and yearly thereafter. 

If you are considering the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program, keep the following in mind:

• Comply with your lease, and landlord/tenant laws including preparation of inventory checklist.
• Pay your share of the rent.
• Make your utility payments, if any, when due.
• Take appropriate care of the property. 
• Respect the rights of others.
• Contact the Sault Housing Commission for instructions if you wish to move before the lease expires.
• Permit annual inspections to ensure property is in good condition to ensure it meets HUD's Housing Quality Standards.
• Re-certify every year if you wish to continue participating in the program. 
• Immediately report any changes in family composition or household income.