Help with Housing

Due to rising housing costs, 1 in 2 families in the Tampa Bay area are now paying more than they can afford on rent. Pinellas County is actively working with partners to create more long-term affordable housing options while providing relief now for people struggling to pay rent and other housing costs.

The following programs offer help with rent and mortgage costs, assistance for families facing homelessness, and places to look for available affordable rental housing.

Note: Many programs have specific income requirements or may have limited resources.

I am worried about being evicted or have received an eviction notice

Eviction Assistance Program: If you are overdue on your rent, don’t wait until you get an eviction notice to seek help. Free legal assistance is available:

I am looking for an affordable rental home or apartment

Pinellas County is working with partners to bring thousands of new affordable rental homes and apartments to the community in the coming years, but the current stock of affordable, rent-restricted housing is at a historic low. Learn more about available options or how to apply for a waiting list for affordable housing:

• The Florida Housing Finance Corporation has a database to help renters locate available apartments in their area: https://floridahousingsearch.org/
• County and City Housing Authorities offer long-term affordable housing and rental assistance programs for income-eligible families, the elderly and persons with disabilities, but most currently have long waiting lists.
  • Pinellas County Housing Authority (727) 443-7684
  • Clearwater Housing Authority (727) 461-5777
  • Tarpon Springs Housing Authority (727) 937-4411
    • Housing Authority Home Share Program

    My family is facing homelessness

    • The Adult Emergency Financial Assistance Program (AEFAP) helps individuals and married couples without minor children by providing financial assistance to help prevent evictions, foreclosures, and unhealthy living conditions as essential employment needs (uniforms, equipment). If you have a max income of $25,760 annually or $2,147 per month for a one-person household, you may qualify. Assistance is available on an annual basis based on need for Pinellas County residents. More information is available at this website.
    • The Family Services Initiative also provides a variety of help ranging from rental assistance to child care for families with qualifying income levels who have minor aged children. Learn more.

    I need help with a down payment or home improvements

    • Homeowners may qualify for low-interest loans and/or grants for home improvements. Learn more and apply.
    • Homebuyers can get free first-time homebuyer education and apply for the Down Payment Assistance Program.

    I need assistance finding other kinds of help

    211 Tampa Bay Cares connects residents to a wide variety of helpful services offered by local governments, nonprofits and other agencies throughout Pinellas County and our 24 cities. Dial 211, text your zip code to 898211 or use the 211 app.

    I need to file a complaint about unsafe living conditions

    Pinellas County Code Enforcement Division regulates code compliance in Pinellas County’s unincorporated neighborhoods and maintains a reporting system for complaints. If you live in an unincorporated area of Pinellas County and feel your living conditions are unsafe (for example, due to lack of adequate ventilation or running water), call (727) 464-4761.

    If you live in an incorporated area within Pinellas County, visit your city’s website for information about how to file a complaint. If you are not sure which jurisdiction you reside in, please call Pinellas County Code Enforcement and our staff will look up your address and direct you to the appropriate department or municipality.

    Mobile Home Park Complaints can be filed with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, a state agency that enforces the Florida Mobile Home Act (FL Statute 723) – this law applies to the rental of mobile homes located on a rented or leased lot in a mobile home park where 10 or more lots are offered for rent or lease. For more info, call (850) 488-1122.

    I need to file a complaint about housing discrimination

    The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental or financing of housing based on race, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, familial status or disability. Report housing discrimination to the Pinellas County Office of Human Rights by calling (727) 464-4880.