Transitional Housing in Washington, DC
Free & low-cost transitional housing programs for people rebuilding their lives in Washington, DC
Last updated:
Quick Answer
The Washington area has approximately 50 transitional housing programs. Many programs are free through HUD, the VA, District of Columbia state programs, and local nonprofits. Programs that charge typically ask for $420–$1400/month or 30% of income. Call 211 for local referrals or the National DV Hotline (1-800-799-7233) if you are fleeing domestic violence.
Washington, DC Transitional Housing at a Glance
~50
Programs
Free–$1400
Monthly Cost
3–24
Months (Typical Stay)
7
Populations Served
What Is Transitional Housing?
Transitional housing provides temporary housing combined with supportive services to help people move from homelessness or crisis situations to permanent, stable housing. Unlike emergency shelters (which offer short-term beds, often just overnight), transitional housing programs typically last 3 to 24 months and include case management, job training, financial literacy, counseling, and help finding permanent housing.
Transitional housing in Washingtonserves a wide range of people: those experiencing homelessness, domestic violence survivors, veterans, families with children, youth aging out of foster care, people reentering society after incarceration, and those in addiction recovery. The goal is always the same — providing a stable foundation so residents can get back on their feet and achieve lasting independence.
Unlike halfway houses (which are specifically for people leaving incarceration or in substance abuse recovery), transitional housing serves a broader population and typically has fewer restrictions. There may not be curfews, mandatory meetings, or drug testing — though program-specific rules vary.
Who Can Apply for Transitional Housing in Washington?
Transitional housing programs in Washington serve the following populations. Eligibility varies by program.
Cost Breakdown
Free programs: Many transitional housing programs in Washington are completely free, especially those funded by HUD Continuum of Care grants, the VA (for veterans), or District of Columbia state programs. DV shelters and youth-specific programs are almost always free.
Income-based programs: Some programs ask residents to contribute 30% of their income toward rent once they are employed. If you have no income, you pay nothing. This model helps residents practice budgeting and saving for permanent housing.
Fee-based programs: Some private or nonprofit programs charge a modest monthly fee, typically $420–$1400/month. This often includes a room, meals, utilities, and access to supportive services like case management and job training.
How to Find Transitional Housing in Washington
- 1.
- 2.
Contact Your Local Continuum of Care (CoC)
HUD funds a Continuum of Care in every community, which coordinates access to transitional housing. In Washington, this is typically managed through a coordinated entry system. Visit HUD Exchange to find your local CoC.
- 3.
Veterans: Contact the VA
Veterans can access transitional housing through the VA's Grant and Per Diem (GPD) program, HUD-VASH vouchers, and Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF). Call the VA homeless veteran helpline at 1-877-424-3838.
- 4.
DV Survivors: Call the National Hotline
If you are fleeing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 (24/7, confidential). They can connect you with safe transitional housing programs in Washington for survivors and their children.
- 5.
Contact Local Nonprofits Directly
Many transitional housing programs accept direct applications. See the notable organizations listed below for programs in Washington. You can also visit a local shelter or community action agency to get connected with transitional housing options.
Transitional Housing Organizations in Washington
These organizations provide transitional housing or can connect you with programs in the Washington area. Contact them directly for availability and eligibility requirements.
- •Miriam's Kitchen
- •N Street Village
- •So Others Might Eat (SOME)
- •Pathways to Housing DC
District of Columbia Transitional Housing Programs
DC funds transitional housing through the Department of Human Services (DHS) Continuum of Care and the Rapid Re-Housing Program. The Interagency Council on Homelessness coordinates the District's homeless services system.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is transitional housing in Washington, DC?
How much does transitional housing cost in Washington?
How do I apply for transitional housing in Washington, DC?
How long can I stay in transitional housing in Washington?
Related Resources
- Second Chance ApartmentsFull housing guide
- Halfway Houses in Washington, DCFor people leaving incarceration
- Sober Living Homes GuideNational guide
- Jobs & EmploymentCompanies that hire people with records
- SNAP Benefits in District of ColumbiaFood assistance
- Get Your ID in District of ColumbiaState ID, birth certificate, SSN
Related Resources on This Site
More for your state
- Jobs by CityFelony friendly jobs in Washington, DC
- HousingSecond chance apartments in Washington, DC
- ExpungementDistrict of Columbia expungement guide
- Voting RightsFelon voting rights in District of Columbia
- Gun RightsFelon gun rights in District of Columbia
- DUI RecoveryDUI license recovery in District of Columbia
- ProbationProbation & parole in District of Columbia
- SR22 InsuranceSR22 insurance in District of Columbia
Helpful guides
- EducationPell grants for felons
- Food & BenefitsWIC program guide
- Phone & InternetFree government phone (Lifeline program)
- UtilitiesNo-deposit electricity plans