2026 NYC Voucher Payment Standards: What Changed and What It Means for You
Each year, NYC's rental subsidy programs update their payment standards — the maximum rent the program will cover — to track changes in the rental market. For 2026, all major programs have increased their caps, expanding the range of apartments accessible to voucher holders.
CityFHEPS 2026 Payment Standards
| Unit Size | 2026 Standard |
|---|---|
| Studio | $2,387/mo |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,696/mo |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,247/mo |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,002/mo |
| 4 Bedrooms | $4,637/mo |
Section 8 (HCV) 2026 Payment Standards by Borough
| Borough | 1 BR | 2 BR | 3 BR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bronx | $2,388 | $2,941 | $3,673 |
| Brooklyn | $2,432 | $2,997 | $3,745 |
| Queens/SI | $2,476 | $3,049 | $3,811 |
| Manhattan | $2,562 | $3,167 | $3,960 |
What This Means for Tenants
Higher payment standards directly expand your search options. If you had a voucher last year and found that most apartments in your target neighborhood were just above your cap, re-run your search — some previously ineligible units may now fall within the 2026 standards.
What This Means for Landlords
Higher caps mean more of your units may now qualify. If your asking rent previously exceeded the payment standard, check whether the 2026 update brings it within range. Landlords whose rents now fall within the standard can access the larger pool of CityFHEPS and Section 8 applicants.
When do the 2026 payment standards take effect?
How often do payment standards change?
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