For many families, individuals, and seniors, finding affordable housing in Brevard County, Florida, is of utmost importance. Private developers, non-profits, and the local government are collaborating to increase access to high-quality, affordable housing as the area grows. Brevard County has a range of programs and properties to suit different needs, whether you’re looking to buy, rent, or need help because of financial difficulties. The current state of affordable housing in Brevard County is examined in this guide, along with the options that are available, the programs that offer assistance, and advice on how to find your next residence.
What Is Affordable Housing?
Homes and apartments that are priced so that low- to moderate-income households spend no more than 30% of their income on housing expenses, such as rent or a mortgage and utilities, are referred to as affordable housing. Affordable housing options in Brevard County include:
- Subsidized apartments
- Section 8 housing
- Income-restricted rentals
- Single-family homes for rent or purchase
- Assistance programs for repairs, down payments, and rent
Current Affordable Housing Inventory in Brevard County
County-Owned Affordable Housing Properties
A list of properties set aside for affordable housing is kept up to date by Brevard County. These consist of single-family residences and undeveloped land that could be developed in the future. Among the noteworthy addresses are:
- 2565 Hagopian Avenue, SW, Palm Bay
- 816 Mathers Street, Melbourne
- 1047 Mitchell Street, Cocoa
- 606 Tropic Street, Titusville
- 810 Saltwater Street, SW, Palm Bay
The Brevard County Housing and Human Services Department oversees these properties and strives to make sure that low- and moderate-income residents can afford them.
Low-Income Apartments
In Brevard County, there are 154 affordable apartments for rent right now. Families and individuals who meet specific income requirements can more easily access these units because they are frequently subsidized or income-restricted. A large number of these apartments are eligible for federal programs like Section 8, which can drastically lower the rent paid by the tenant each month.
Affordable Rental Houses
Brevard County offers 478 reasonably priced rental homes for single-family home seekers. These rental properties, which are spread across different neighborhoods, are priced lower than the average for the county. Depending on location, size, and amenities, rent can start at as little as $650 a month.
Key Affordable Housing Programs
1. HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME)
Federal funds are distributed through the HOME Program to build and maintain affordable housing. For the development, rehabilitation, and support of affordable housing, Brevard County and its partner cities—Titusville, Cocoa, Melbourne, and Palm Bay—anticipate more than $1 million in 2025–2026.
2. Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)
The CDBG program finances public services, infrastructure, and decent housing to promote the growth of sustainable communities. With yearly funding of more than $1.3 million, it mainly assists families and individuals with low to moderate incomes.
3. Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program
The Section 8 program, which covers up to 70% of a qualifying tenant’s rent, is run by the Brevard County Housing Authority. The remaining 30% is the tenant’s responsibility. Although there are 60 affordable housing units available as of March 2025, availability is subject to quick changes. Interested candidates should inquire about updates on a regular basis from the local housing authorities.
4. Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP2)
For renters experiencing financial difficulties as a result of COVID-19 or other emergencies, ERAP2 offers short-term financial support. For qualified households, the funds, which are disbursed through neighborhood non-profit organizations, can assist with utility and rent costs.
5. Repair, Rehab, and Weatherization Programs
Low- to moderate-income homeowners may be eligible for help with weatherization, home repairs, or rehabilitation to increase safety and energy efficiency. These initiatives aim to lower utility bills and assist homeowners in maintaining their homes.
How to Find and Apply for Affordable Housing
Online Search Tools
- Users can search for low-income and reasonably priced rentals in Brevard County using Apartments.com and HotPads. You can view photos and neighborhood information, sort listings by price, and set alerts for new listings.
- A list of affordable housing properties that are available, along with information about eligibility and current programs, can be found on the Brevard County Housing and Human Services website.
Local Housing Authorities
Brevard County has four local housing authorities. They oversee waiting lists for public housing units and Section 8 vouchers. It’s crucial to check frequently and apply as soon as you can because availability can change.
Application Process
- Eligibility: The majority of programs have income requirements that are based on household size. These limits can be found on the websites of the county or housing authority, and they are updated once a year.
- Documentation: When applying for emergency assistance, have your identification, proof of income, rental history, and any notices of eviction or utility shutoff ready.
- Waitlists: There are waitlists for many programs because of the high demand. Send in your application as soon as possible, and keep an eye out for updates.
Neighborhoods and Areas with Affordable Options
Affordable housing is available throughout Brevard County, including in:
- Palm Bay: Multiple county-owned properties and affordable rentals.
- Cocoa and Cocoa West: Several single-family homes and apartments.
- Melbourne: Income-restricted apartments and homes for sale.
- Titusville: Affordable units and new developments.
- Mims and Merritt Island: Scattered site properties and rental homes.
Recent Developments and Future Plans
Affordable housing is still a top priority for Brevard County thanks to community involvement and strategic planning. The CDBG and HOME programs’ funding priorities are established in the 2025–2026 Annual Action Plan, which emphasizes building more affordable housing, enhancing infrastructure, and bolstering public services for disadvantaged groups.
Every year, the county’s Affordable Housing Advisory Committee assesses and suggests new laws and incentives to promote the construction of affordable housing. This entails looking over zoning laws, expediting the permitting procedure, and locating extra land for housing developments.
Tips for Securing Affordable Housing in Brevard County
- Act Quickly: Affordable units are in high demand and can be leased or sold rapidly.
- Use Multiple Resources: Check online platforms, county websites, and local non-profits for the latest listings and program openings.
- Prepare Your Documents: Having your paperwork ready can speed up the application process.
- Consider All Options: Explore both rental and ownership opportunities, as well as repair and assistance programs if you already own a home.
- Stay Informed: Attend public hearings and community meetings to learn about new developments and share your input on housing needs.
Conclusion
A variety of affordable housing options are available in Brevard County for homeowners, renters, and buyers who require assistance. Residents have access to resources that can make finding a safe, affordable home a reality, including dozens of county-owned properties, hundreds of reasonably priced rental properties, and strong support programs. You can seize these chances and find housing that suits your requirements and price range by remaining proactive and knowledgeable.
Visit the Brevard County Housing and Human Services website frequently for the most recent information, and get in touch with neighborhood housing authorities and nonprofit organizations.