Benefits of Living in an Opportunity Area
The Housing Choice Voucher Program gives participating households greater flexibility when choosing where to live, including the option to consider neighborhoods with lower poverty rates and greater access to community resources.
HUD defines a high-poverty census tract as an area where at least 40% of residents live below the federal poverty level.
Depending on a household’s individual needs, living in a higher-opportunity neighborhood may provide access to:
- High-performing schools and educational opportunities
- Employment and career opportunities
- Public transportation and community services
- Grocery stores, healthcare providers, and other essential resources
- Parks, shopping and recreational amenities
- Neighborhoods with lower crime rates
Research on housing mobility programs suggests that moving from a high-poverty neighborhood to a lower-poverty area may improve certain long-term outcomes, particularly for children who move at a younger age. Studies have also identified potential health benefits for adults, including reduced rates of extreme obesity, diabetes, and psychological distress. Individual experiences and outcomes may vary.
Explore Neighborhood Resources
Use the following tools to learn more about communities, available resources, and transportation options: