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Jamison Village: Senior Living in Columbia with Affordable Rent

By Constance Obi · Culture & Recreation Writer

What Jamison Village offers and who lives there

Jamison Village is a senior housing community in Columbia operated by the Housing Authority of the City of Columbia (HACC). It provides apartments specifically for people aged 62 and older, with rent based on your income rather than a fixed monthly rate. The community sits on Jamison Avenue and houses roughly 150 residents in one- and two-bedroom units.

The complex includes on-site amenities like a community room, laundry facilities, and grounds maintenance. Residents manage their own households independently—this is not assisted living or nursing care. Many residents have lived there for years, creating a stable neighborhood where people know their neighbors.

Key Takeaways

  • Jamison Village is owned and run by the Housing Authority of the City of Columbia and serves residents 62 and older.
  • Rent is calculated as 30 percent of your gross monthly income, so what you pay depends directly on what you earn.
  • You must contact HACC directly to learn about current openings, as wait lists and availability change throughout the year.
  • The application process requires proof of income, identity, and rental history, and HACC will verify information with previous landlords and employers.
  • Once approved, you sign a lease and can move in when a unit becomes available.

How rent works at Jamison Village

Rent at Jamison Village is income-based, meaning you pay 30 percent of your gross monthly income. If you receive Social Security, a pension, wages, or other income, HACC counts all of it. Your rent changes if your income changes, so you report any increase or decrease to the property manager.

Utilities are typically included in the rent or charged separately depending on the lease terms—ask HACC for specifics when you inquire. You are responsible for renters insurance, which is inexpensive and protects your belongings. The income-based model means residents with lower fixed incomes pay less than those with higher earnings, making it affordable for people living primarily on Social Security.

How to contact HACC and ask about openings

The Housing Authority of the City of Columbia manages Jamison Village and handles all inquiries about availability and the application process. You can reach them by phone during business hours or visit their office in person. Their main office is located in Columbia, and staff can tell you whether units are currently available or if there is a wait list.

When you call or visit, have your date of birth ready to confirm you meet the age requirement. Ask specifically about one- and two-bedroom availability and the current wait time. If no units are open, ask to be placed on a waiting list and find out how you will be notified when something becomes available.

What you need to bring to the application

HACC will ask for documents that prove your identity, income, and rental history. Bring a government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license or passport. You will need proof of income from the past 30 days—this can be a Social Security statement, pension letter, recent pay stub, or bank statements showing regular deposits.

If you have rented before, HACC will contact your previous landlord to verify you paid rent on time and left the unit in good condition. If you have never rented, bring a character reference from someone who can speak to your reliability. HACC may also run a background check and verify employment history if applicable. Bring originals and copies of everything; staff will tell you which documents they keep and which they return.

The application and approval timeline

After you submit your application and documents, HACC reviews everything and contacts your references. This verification step typically takes one to three weeks. Once HACC approves your application, you are placed on the lease list for Jamison Village. You do not move in immediately—you wait until a unit matching your needs (one or two bedroom) becomes available.

Wait time for a unit varies. It may be weeks or several months depending on how many people are ahead of you and how often residents move out. HACC will contact you when a unit is ready, and you will sign a lease and receive keys. Some people are approved and move in within a month; others wait longer. Ask HACC for an estimate based on current turnover when your application is approved.

Rules and expectations for residents

Jamison Village residents must follow lease terms that cover rent payment, maintenance of the unit, and community conduct. Rent is due on the first of each month. If you fall behind, HACC can begin eviction proceedings, so paying on time is essential. You are responsible for keeping your apartment clean and reporting maintenance issues promptly.

Pets, guest policies, and noise restrictions are outlined in the lease. Smoking may be restricted to certain areas or prohibited entirely—ask about the specific policy when you apply. HACC staff manage the property and can address disputes between neighbors. The community room is available for resident gatherings and activities, and some properties host programs or social events.

Other senior housing options in Columbia

If Jamison Village has a wait list or does not meet your needs, other senior housing exists in the Columbia area. The Housing Authority manages several properties for seniors, and private senior apartments are also available. Some communities offer assisted living or memory care if you need help with daily activities, though those cost more than independent senior housing.

You can also explore Section 811 housing (for people with disabilities) or Section 8 vouchers, which allow you to rent from private landlords with a subsidy. Contact HACC or call 211 South Carolina to learn about other programs and communities in your area. Each option has different income limits, amenities, and availability, so comparing them helps you find the best fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my income is very low or I receive only Social Security?

Jamison Village is designed for seniors on fixed incomes, and Social Security counts as income. If your only income is Social Security, your rent will be 30 percent of that amount. Many residents live on Social Security alone, so you are not alone in this situation. HACC can tell you the approximate rent based on your current income.

Can I move to a different unit size if my needs change?

If you are living in a one-bedroom and need a two-bedroom, or vice versa, contact the property manager to request a transfer. Availability determines whether a move is possible, and you may need to wait for a unit to open. Transfers are handled on a case-by-case basis, so ask about the process when you move in.

What happens if I can no longer afford the rent?

If your income drops, report the change to HACC immediately. Your rent will be recalculated based on the new income, and you will pay less. If your income increases, your rent increases as well. This income-based system means your housing cost adjusts with your financial situation.

Is there a lease term, or can I move out anytime?

Leases at Jamison Village typically run for one year and renew automatically unless you or HACC give notice. If you want to move out, you usually must provide 30 days' notice in writing. Breaking a lease early may result in penalties, so review the lease terms before signing.

How do I report a maintenance problem in my unit?

Contact the property manager or maintenance office at Jamison Village directly. Most communities have a phone line or office hours for maintenance requests. Urgent issues like no heat or a water leak should be reported immediately. Non-emergency repairs are typically scheduled within a few days to a week.