Find Housing
Welcome & Quick Start
Finding safe, affordable housing as a student can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time. This guide breaks down every step, explains local housing options, and connects you with emergency help if you need it.
This guide supports GW Nursing students (and other local university students) in their search for affordable, safe, and accessible housing, as well as anyone facing financial barriers or emergency needs. Whether you’re a first-time renter or new to the area, you’ll find step-by-step help, links, and contacts for urgent situations.
Important note: Most apartments in this area will waive the minimum income requirement if students show their admission letter.
- 1. What Does “Affordable Housing” Mean?
In this guide, affordable housing refers to homes and apartments available at prices set for people earning below the area’s average income. Most of these are provided through public programs (like Affordable Dwelling Units and Workforce Dwelling Units), while some are private rentals reserved for moderate-income or student tenants.
- 2. Key Definitions Explained
- Affordable Dwelling Unit (ADU): An apartment or home that must be rented or sold below market price to families whose income is below the average for the area. Run by city or county government, often with a waitlist.
- Workforce Dwelling Unit (WDU): A rental specifically for working individuals and families earning too much for ADUs but not enough to manage standard rent near jobs and campus.
- Area Median Income (AMI): The area’s average income, used by housing programs to set eligibility. For 2025, Loudoun & Fairfax AMI ranges from $31,000 (for one-person household at 30% AMI) to $146,000 (four-person at 100% AMI).
- Subsidized Housing: Rent is partly paid or reduced by government or nonprofit programs, for applicants who meet income and/or need tests.
- Voucher Programs: Financial help (such as Section 8 vouchers) that pays some of your rent directly to your landlord if you qualify.
- Waitlist: A holding list for affordable programs. You must apply first, then wait for a unit or voucher.
- Lease: A legal contract with your landlord—always read this carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear.
- 3. Checklist for First-Time Renters
1. Set Your Budget:
Decide how much you can afford for rent and monthly bills. Use online rent calculators (in the Tools section) to estimate costs.
2. Gather All Documentation in Advance:
You’ll need:
○ Government-issued photo ID
○ Proof of income (pay stubs, tax return, or financial aid award letter)
○ Proof you live, work, or attend school in the area
○ Oftentimes, a soft credit check (this does not impact your credit score)
3. Search for Apartments:
Use the included spreadsheet/map and check both county housing programs and private listings.
4. Tour Properties & Ask Smart Questions:
Visit in person or online. Ask: Are utilities (trash collection, water, internet, electricity) included? How do I request repairs? What are move-in costs? Who do I contact in an emergency? How are pets, families, and guests treated? Where is the closest public transportation, grocery store, recreation centers, etc?
5. Apply Early—Many Programs Have Waitlists:
Public affordable housing programs and some apartments may require waiting, especially those offered for low-income individuals. Keep contact information updated and save all documents.
6. Get Help Early if Stuck or in Crisis:
Call the emergency/support contacts right away if at risk of losing housing or utilities. Depending on the situation, you may need to contact the local authorities or review your tenant rights.
- 4. Local Housing Programs for Low-Income Residents
Loudoun County Department of Housing & Community Development (DHCD):
Main resource for all Loudoun County housing programs—connects you to affordable units, subsidies, and emergency options. Call, email, or visit their website for step-by-step intake.
Contact: (703) 737-8323 | housing
loudoun [dot] gov | DHCD Program Descriptions PDF______________________________________________________________
Loudoun County Affordable Dwelling Unit (ADU) Program:
Below-market units (rent & sale) reserved for those who live or work in Loudoun. Students may qualify.
- Typical wait: 1 year or longer—so apply early!
- Complete documentation required (no partial/in-progress online apps allowed).
ADU Rental Info | ADU Overview | ADU Rent Contact: 703-737-8043
______________________________________________________________
Loudoun Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program:
Formerly called Section 8, offers monthly rental support for low-income renters (≤50% AMI). Waitlist is often closed. Check annually or join notification lists.
Apply/learn more: HCV Info
______________________________________________________________
Unmet Housing Needs Units (UHNU):
Deeply reduced rents for those below 30% AMI, plus “Community Workforce Units” set aside for qualified public employees such as teachers or county staff.
Apply: Email housingloudoun [dot] gov (housing[at]loudoun[dot]gov) with subject “UHNU” for availability. | UHNU Details______________________________________________________________
Good Shepherd Alliance:
Nonprofit providing rapid (temporary) housing and rehousing help for people who lose existing shelter or face immediate eviction. Fastest for people in sudden need.
Contact: (703) 724-1555 | community
goodshepherdnova [dot] org (community[at]goodshepherdnova[dot]org) | Program Info______________________________________________________________
Loudoun Cares Helpline:
A trusted, confidential referral line that connects all Loudoun residents to local housing, emergency, and financial help from both government and nonprofit sources.
Helpline: 703-669-4636 | volcenterloudouncares [dot] org (volcenter[at]loudouncares[dot]org) ______________________________________________________________
Loudoun Homeless Services Center:
Provides day services, emergency shelter, and after-hours crisis support for Loudoun County. If you lose housing or can’t safely remain where you are, call or go in person.
Address: 19520 Meadowview Court, Leesburg
Hours: (703) 777-0420 (Mon–Fri 8:30–5pm), (571) 258-3033 (after 5pm/weekends)
Learn more______________________________________________________________
LCPS McKinney-Vento Office:
Supports K–12 and college students who lose housing (or whose families do), helping maintain school access, transportation, and meal benefits during instability.
Contact: (571) 252-6523 | LCPS McKinney-Vento______________________________________________________________
Fairfax County Workforce Dwelling Unit (WDU) Program:
Privately-owned properties with a set number of reduced-rent apartments reserved for middle-income workers close to job and transit centers. Some units may prioritize applicants living or working in Fairfax.
Fairfax WDU Info & Listings______________________________________________________________
Fairfax County ADU & Committed Affordable Units:
A wide range of market and below-market listings, with an updated property list for apartments across Fairfax. Contact properties directly for units.
______________________________________________________________
Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) Magnet Housing:
Special housing access for FCPS teachers, school nurses, and other public school employees. Some slots also reserved for college students employed at FCPS/INOVA.
FCPS Magnet Housing- 5. Local Housing Tools & Search Guides
- Loudoun County Apartment Rental Guide & Map: Visualize options and compare average prices.
- Loudoun County Eviction Prevention Guide: Know your rights and find county-backed moving/support tips.
- General Information for Renters (Loudoun County): Find resources for renters, including on the Affordable Dwelling Unit Rental Program, Eviction Prevention, Housing Choice Voucher Program, and the Unmet Housing Needs Units Program
- Printable Affordable Dwelling Unit (ADU) Apartment List (October 2025): See which properties participate.
- Regional Shelters Directory: Find emergency shelter, transitional housing, and more across Virginia.
- National Financial Help Directory: Coaching and resources based on locality.
Official Guidelines for Loudoun County Housing Programs: Most up-to-date guidelines on qualifying incomes for Loudoun County Housing Programs
- 6. Income Limits, Eligibility, and Required Documents
Most housing/rental assistance programs require you to be under a specific Area Median Income (AMI) percentage—check each program’s website for details.
For Loudoun County, a good starting point is reviewing this document which identifies the income requirements for the Affordable Dwelling Unit (ADU) Rental Program, the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program, the State Rental Assistance Program (SRAP), and Unmet Housing Needs Units (UHNU).
Note: Some housing programs prioritize applicants who both live and work in the county.
2025 Area Median Income (AMI) Guidelines by Household Size (updated 04.2025)
% AMI 1 Person 2 People 3 People 4 People 5 People 6 People Income at 30% $34,450 $39,400 $44,300 $49,200 $53,150 $57,100 Income at 50% $57,400 $65,600 $73,800 $81,950 $88,550 $95,100 Income at 70% $80,350 $91,800 $103,300 $114,750 $123,950 $133,150 Income at 80% $91,850 $104,950 $118,050 $131,150 $141,650 $152,150 Income at 100% $114,750 $131,150 $147,550 $163,900 $177,050 $190,150 Source: https://www.loudoun.gov/DocumentCenter/View/123393/FY26-DHCD-Income-Guidelines---ENGLISH-?bidId=
(Typical) Required Documentation:
- Photo ID and Social Security number (or proof of immigration status)
- Recent pay stubs, tax return, or official financial aid documentation
- Proof of residency or employment in the area
- Landlord contact/lease (for rental, or proof of housing need for emergency support)
- Completed program applications with all supporting docs (incomplete applications are not accepted)
- 7. Essential Strategies for Students
If you’re renting while studying, keep the following considerations in mind:
● Save every pay stub and keep proof of enrollment.
● Prepare all documents before starting the application—once you start online, you cannot leave and return later.
● Consider areas beyond Ashburn, such as Leesburg, for more affordable options.
With limited or no credit:
● Some landlords accept cosigners, references, or alternative documentation like student IDs and financial aid letters.
International students:
● Contact county programs for documentation and visa status rules.
Roommate and Shared Housing Tricks:
● Clarify, in writing, household rules and financial commitments.
● Confirm who is legally responsible on the lease—this affects eligibility and program compliance. Have a written agreement about rent sharing and who is on the lease.
- 8. Emergency/Crisis Resources
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or experiencing a crisis, it’s important to seek help right away. The following resources provide 24/7 support, emergency response, and urgent assistance for mental health, safety, and basic needs. You are never alone—help is available at any time.
Coordinated Entry Services (Loudoun County Department of Family Services)
The main access point for anyone experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Coordinated Entry quickly assesses your situation and connects you to shelter, housing programs, and supportive services. Available Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Phone: 703-777-0420
Hypothermia Prevention Shelter
Seasonal overnight shelter open mid-November through March, 5:00 p.m.–8:30 a.m. Provides single adults (18+) with a warm indoor space, meals, showers, and referrals to community resources.
- 16450 Meadowview Ct, Leesburg, VA 20175
- All shelter guests will be required to first check in at the Loudoun Homeless Services Center, located at 19520 Meadowview Court in Leesburg. After checking in, guests will be served dinner and then directed to the Hypothermia Prevention Shelter.
- More info is located at: https://www.loudoun.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?aid=10234
Drop-In Centers (Day Services)
Safe daytime locations offering meals, showers, laundry, computers, and information on community resources for adults experiencing homelessness.
- Loudoun Homeless Services Center (Drop-In)
Address: 19520 Meadowview Court, Leesburg, VA
Phone: 571-258-3033
Hours: Daily, 8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m. - Eastern Loudoun Drop-In Center
Address: 21641 Ridgetop Circle, Suite 111, Sterling, VA
Phone: 571-367-8646
Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. - More info is located at: https://www.loudoun.gov/1796/Homeless-Services
Emergency Homeless Shelters
Short-term shelters offering crisis housing and support services.
- Loudoun Homeless Services Center
Address: 19520 Meadowview Court, Leesburg, VA
Phone: 571-258-3033
Serving singles and families.
- The Good Shepherd Alliance
Address: 20684 Ashburn Road, Ashburn, VA
Phone: 703-724-1555
Serving families, single women, and single mothers.
- LAWS Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Services
Address: 105 E Market Street, Leesburg, VA
Phone: 703-777-6552
Shelter for survivors fleeing domestic or sexual violence.
Homeless Prevention & Diversion Services
Helps individuals and families avoid homelessness if they are within 14 days of court-ordered eviction. Provides case management, stability planning, referrals, and limited financial assistance once all non-financial options have been explored.
The support provided is meant to prevent the incidence of homelessness, including, but not limited to: short-term subsidies to defray rent and utility arrears for households that have received eviction or utility termination notices (prevention); security deposits or first month’s rent to permit a homeless family to move into its own apartment (diversion); and other supportive services intended to prevent households from becoming homeless.
Offered by Loudoun County Department of Family Services
Address: 102 Heritage Way, NE, Suite 103, Leesburg, VA 20176
Phone: (703) 777-0420
Email: dfs
loudoun [dot] govHousing Location & Supportive Housing Programs
To access the following programs, call Coordinated Entry Services at 703-777-0420 to complete a referral. The Coordinated Entry Services line is open Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Coordinated Entry is a process designed to quickly identify, assess, refer, and connect people experiencing a housing crisis, such as homelessness, to housing assistance and services.
- Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH)
Long-term housing assistance paired with voluntary services for people with disabilities who have experienced chronic homelessness.
- Rapid Re-Housing
Helps individuals and families move quickly from homelessness to permanent housing through short-term financial support and targeted services.
- Transitional Housing
Temporary, affordable housing where residents contribute part of their income toward rent. Programs focus on financial stability, employment readiness, and independent living skills.
Loudoun Cares Info Line
Free, confidential helpline connecting Loudoun County residents to local services including health care, food assistance, housing resources, financial help, and employment support. Available Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Phone: 703-669-4636
HUD Housing Counseling Services
A nationwide network of HUD-certified housing counseling agencies offering free or low-cost guidance on renting, fair housing, budgeting, credit, foreclosure prevention, and other housing decisions. These services help individuals and families make informed, stable housing choices. Visit the following link for more information: https://hud4.my.site.com/housingcounseling/s/?language=en_US
- 9. Apartment Listing Resources & Spreadsheet
To maximize your search:
- Review the below property list compiled for local Ashburn lodging.
- Contact properties directly by phone, email, or web form.
- Ask if affordable or mixed-income units are available and what documents are required.
- Alternatively, check out listings in the following local resources:
- Communities that Participate in the Loudoun County Affordable Dwelling Unit (ADU) Program (as of 10/21/25)* (linked here)
- Apartment Rental Guide (linked here) and Map (linked here)
- Northern Virginia Multifamily Section 8/Housing Choice Voucher Program Housing (linked here)
- Online sites like apartments.com or craiglist.com are popular for short-term rentals listing, in addition to individuals looking for sublets or roommates.
Property Address Contact Phone Contact Page/Email Brixton at Loudoun 20300 River Ridge Terrace, Ashburn, VA 20147 703-804-0270 https://www.livethebrixton.com/contact_us/ Acadia by SDK 19900 Broad Vista Terrace, Ashburn, VA 20147 (571) 410-3419 https://www.acadiabysdk.com/Contact.aspx Saddle Ridge Apartments 20070 Coltsfoot Terrace, Ashburn, VA 20147 (833) 605-6291 https://www.saddleridgeapartmentsva.com/contactus.aspx Parkside at Ashburn 43513 Amberly Terrace, Ashburn, VA 20147 (703) 726-1060 N/A The View at Broadlands 21995 Flatiron Terrace, Ashburn, VA 20148 703-562-7306 https://www.viewatbroadlands.com/contactus Camden Silo Creek 43449 Silo Creek Terrace Ashburn, VA 20147 (571) 701-1138 https://www.camdenliving.com/apartments/ashburn-va/camden-silo-creek?ut… City House Ashburn Station 21901 Garganey Terrace, Ashburn, VA 20147 703.215.9222 https://www.cityhouseashburn.com/contact/ The Flats at Waxpool Crossing 21950 Garganey Terrace, Ashburn, Virginia 20147 888-425-1904 https://www.khov.com/new-construction-homes/virginia/ashburn/the-flats-… Waxpool Apartments 43815 Oystercatcher Terrace, Ashburn, VA 20147 571-541-6859 https://www.waxpoolapts.com/contactus Grove at Flynn’s Crossing 21892 Blossom Hill Terrace, Ashburn, VA 20147 703-724-7889 groveatflynnsinfo evergreenreg [dot] comThe Heights at Goose Creek Village 42785 Generation Drive, Ashburn, VA 20147 (703) 844 2736 https://www.theheightsgcv.com/contact-us The Ashborough 20155 San Joaquin Terrace, Ashburn, VA 20147 1 833-494-1727 https://www.ashboroughapts.com/contactus Broadlands Apartments 21799 Crescent Park Square, Ashburn, VA 20148 833 552 1416 https://www.broadlandsapt.com/contactus Ashburn Meadows 21030 Lowry Park Terrace, Ashburn, VA 20147 855.671.0980 https://www.ashburnmeadows.com/contact Ashburn Chase Apartments 19761 Ashburn Road , Suite 501 Ashburn, VA 20147 703-713-5678 https://www.ashburnchaseapts.com/ Acclaim at Ashburn 43848 Dodge Terrace, Ashburn, VA 20147 703.858.5222 https://acclaimatashburn.com/contact/
acclaimatashburn
avanath [dot] comAtley on the Greenway 21827 High Rock Terrace, Ashburn, VA 20147 (571) 350-3232 https://www.atley-apts.com/atley-on-the-greenway-ashburn-va/contact Vista Fairfax Corner 4125 Monument Corner Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030 703-686-8493 vistafairfax
greystar [dot] comWindy Hill Foundation Loudoun and Fauquier Counties (540) 687-3997 https://windyhillfoundation.org/our-properties/rental-availability/
info
windyhillfoundation [dot] orgLast updated: November 2025