If you’ve ever cried in the parking lot because you didn’t know how you’d cover rent this month — you’re not alone.
In almost every single parent group I’m part of, one topic always comes up: affordable housing for single parents. Whether it’s finding your first place after becoming a single parent, skyrocketing rent, unexpected eviction, or trying to qualify for a safe place with one income, this is one of the biggest stressors we face.
I’ve been there, more than once. And while I don’t have a magic solution, I want to share some real tools and encouragement that helped me (and others) survive it — and start to feel like I had a little control again.
Why Housing Is So Hard for Single Parents
Affordable housing struggles aren’t about laziness or poor decisions — they’re about impossible math.
- We’re often trying to stretch one income across bills meant for two.
- Landlords want 3x rent income, spotless credit, and deposits we don’t have.
- Childcare needs make it hard to work longer hours or pick up extra shifts.
- Emergencies (car repairs, medical bills) can completely wipe out what little margin we had.
It’s terrifying — and isolating. But you’re not the only one fighting this battle.
Where to Find Help (Even When It Feels Hopeless)
How can single parents find affordable housing? Here are some real-world places that can offer support — some immediately, others over time.
1. Emergency & Short-Term Housing
- Call 211 (or visit 211.org) – a free resource to connect you to local services.
- Check local nonprofits – search “[Your City] housing assistance” or “single parent shelter [Your State]”.
- Faith-based organizations – churches, temples, and mosques often have benevolence funds or housing partnerships.
- DV shelters – If domestic violence is a factor, you may qualify for immediate shelter and advocacy support.
2. Longer-Term Options
- Apply for HUD assistance – visit HUD.gov and look up income-based housing options.
- Join Section 8 waitlists – they can be long, but getting on the list is a smart move.
- Look for local housing authorities – many counties have their own low-income housing programs.
- Search income-based apartments near you — even if waitlisted, spots do open up.
If you want a free Single Parent Housing Survival guide, enter your email below, and it will be delivered right to your inbox. This FREE guide will help with the overwhelm. It includes resources, a checklist of expected documents needed, and more.
3. What to Do While You Wait
- Ask trusted friends or family if they know of anyone with a basement, guest room, or mother-in-law suite.
- Offer to help with chores or cooking in exchange for lower rent.
- Join community Facebook groups and post exactly what you need — someone may have a lead or want a reliable tenant.
When I was first leaving my ex-husband, I had nothing. I had been a SAHM for years, and my ex froze all the money, which left me unable to access anything. I didn’t give up. I continued to search for affordable housing places that would accommodate me, and I was transparent about my situation. I was able to find a friend who was willing to live with me and help with not only rent but also child care, and it was a lifesaver.
Small Steps That Make a Big Difference
When you’re overwhelmed, start small. Here are five things you can do today that may not fix everything, but will move you forward:
- Write out a 2-week budget to see where your money is actually going. (Link to your budget freebie if you want.)
- Apply to 2–3 local housing programs (even if it’s a long shot).
- Call or email 1 organization asking for support or referrals.
- Join one local mutual aid group on Facebook and scroll for opportunities.
- Use a planner page to map out the week ahead and reduce mental clutter.
“A little plan goes a long way.” I say that often because it’s true — especially when everything feels chaotic.
You’re Not a Failure — You’re in a Fight
It’s not your fault. Let’s just say that one more time.
Struggling with housing doesn’t make you a bad parent or irresponsible person — it makes you human, in a system that often doesn’t work for families like ours.
You are doing everything you can with what you have, and that is more than enough.
Please share this with another single parent who needs it. And if you haven’t already, join our Single Parent Plan group on Facebook to join our growing community of single parents!
You’re not alone. And you deserve a place to call home.
