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 may live in one of our units and will pay no more than 30% of their monthly adjusted income for rent. Applicants must meet screening criteria, which are applied consistently to all applicants, prior to placement in a rental unit. 

To be eligible for admission, applicants must meet the following requirements: 

• Applicants must be 18 years or older.
• All household income and assets must be reported to the Sault Ste. Marie Housing Commission for the purpose of calculating income and determining eligibility.
• Gross income from all sources may not exceed limits set by the federal government.
• Tenants receive a utility allowance for utilities they are responsible for contracting and paying.

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

Eligible households that receive a Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher are responsible for finding their own housing in the private market. Units must meet the program's Housing Quality Standards, and landlords must be willing to participate in the program. Tenants generally pay between 30% and 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 per household receiving assistance. Whether remaining in a current unit or moving to a new rental, housing must meet the following requirements: 

• The total cost of rent plus utilities must be within subsidy standards.
• 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 and annually thereafter.

 If you are considering the Section 8 program, you are responsible for: 

• Complying with your lease and landlord/tenant laws, including preparation of an inventory checklist.
• Paying your share of the rent on time.
• Paying utilities, if applicable, on time.
• Taking appropriate care of the property.
• Respecting the rights of neighbors and others.
• Contacting the Sault Ste. Marie Housing Commission for instructions if you wish to move before the lease expires.
• Permitting annual inspections to ensure the unit meets HUD’s Housing Quality Standards.
• Re-certifying annually to continue participation in the program.
• Immediately reporting any changes in household composition or income.