In Orange County, individuals earning up to $104,200 per year are now considered “low income,” according to the California Department of Housing and Community Development’s 2026 income limits released on May 29.
These thresholds determine eligibility for income-restricted apartments and housing assistance programs. Last year, the cut-off was $94,750.
The new income limits reflect the rising cost of living in Orange County, where housing prices have consistently increased. The county’s median income for a four-person household is now $138,600, significantly higher than other nearby counties. This change comes as part of an annual update that affects all 58 counties in California, as reported by Urbanize LA.
These income limits are crucial for determining who can access affordable housing options, which are becoming increasingly necessary as housing costs rise. The Orange County Housing Authority administers programs like the Housing Choice Voucher Program to assist qualified tenants in finding affordable rental housing.
The adjustments in income limits highlight the ongoing challenges faced by residents in high-cost areas like Orange County, where even a six-figure salary may not provide the financial security it once did. As housing prices continue to climb, these thresholds are likely to see further adjustments in the coming years.
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