Uldine Apartments in Columbia: What to Know Before You Move

Uldine is a public housing community in Columbia's Eau Claire neighborhood

Uldine is a residential community managed by the Housing Authority of the City of Columbia (HACC). It sits in the Eau Claire area on the city's northwest side, a neighborhood with deep roots in Columbia's African American history and culture. The community consists of apartment units available to households that meet income limits set by the federal government.

Uldine operates as part of Columbia's public housing system, which means rent is based on what a household earns rather than market rates. The Housing Authority maintains the property and handles lease agreements directly with residents. Understanding how public housing works—and what to expect from the application process—helps you decide whether Uldine fits your situation.

Key Takeaways

• Uldine is managed by the Housing Authority of the City of Columbia and serves households within specific income limits that change each year.
• Rent at Uldine is calculated as a percentage of your household income, typically 30 percent, rather than a fixed monthly amount.
• The Housing Authority maintains a waiting list for Uldine, and the time to move in varies depending on how many people are ahead of you and unit availability.
• You will need to provide proof of income, identification, and rental history when you contact HACC about Uldine.
• Uldine is located in Eau Claire, a neighborhood with bus routes, schools, and community services within reach.

How income limits and rent work at Uldine

Public housing communities like Uldine use income limits to determine who can live there. These limits are set by the federal government and vary by household size—a single person has a different limit than a family of four. The Housing Authority of the City of Columbia publishes current income limits on its website, and they change annually. If your household income falls at or below the limit for your household size, you may be within the range to pursue housing at Uldine.

Once you are living at Uldine, your rent is calculated as a percentage of your gross household income, usually 30 percent. This means if your household earns $1,500 per month, your rent would be approximately $450. As your income changes, your rent adjusts—it does not stay fixed. The Housing Authority reviews income annually and adjusts rent accordingly. This structure is different from market-rate apartments, where rent is set by the landlord and does not change based on what you earn.

The waiting list and move-in timeline

Uldine operates a waiting list managed by the Housing Authority of the City of Columbia. When you contact HACC to express interest, your name goes on the list in the order it is received. The time between joining the list and moving in depends on two things: how many households are ahead of you and how many units become available. In some cases, this can take several months; in others, it may take longer.

The Housing Authority prioritizes certain households—such as those experiencing homelessness or living in unsafe conditions—which can affect where you fall on the list. You can contact HACC directly to ask about your position and estimated timeline. They can also tell you whether Uldine currently has openings or if the waiting list is closed temporarily.

What you need to bring when you contact HACC

When you reach out to the Housing Authority of the City of Columbia about Uldine, have these documents ready: a government-issued photo ID, proof of current income (recent pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter from your employer), and information about your rental history. If you have been evicted or have unpaid rent from a previous landlord, be prepared to discuss that—the Housing Authority reviews rental history as part of their process.

You will also need to provide the names and birthdates of everyone in your household, since income limits and rent calculations are based on household composition. If you are currently homeless or do not have a mailing address, HACC can work with you on how to receive correspondence. Bring whatever documentation you have; if something is missing, the Housing Authority staff can tell you what else they need.

Eau Claire location and neighborhood context

Uldine is located in Eau Claire, a neighborhood on Columbia's northwest side with a significant history in the city's African American community. The area has access to public transportation through COMET bus routes, which connect to downtown Columbia, the University of South Carolina, and other parts of the city. Schools, grocery stores, and community centers are within the neighborhood or nearby.

Eau Claire has undergone changes over recent decades, and the neighborhood continues to be home to long-time residents and families. If you are considering Uldine, visiting the neighborhood at different times of day can help you get a sense of the area and whether it feels like a fit for you and your household.

How to contact the Housing Authority about Uldine

The Housing Authority of the City of Columbia is the direct source for information about Uldine. You can reach them by phone or visit their office in person to ask about current availability, income limits, and the waiting list process. Their staff can answer questions specific to your situation and walk you through what happens next if you decide to pursue housing at Uldine.

When you call or visit, have your household information ready—names, birthdates, current income, and any documentation you have gathered. The Housing Authority can tell you whether Uldine is currently accepting new applications or if the waiting list is closed. They can also discuss other HACC properties if Uldine does not have immediate openings.

Lease terms and resident responsibilities

Once you move into Uldine, you sign a lease with the Housing Authority that outlines your rights and responsibilities as a resident. The lease covers things like rent payment, maintenance of the unit, and community rules. Public housing leases are similar to private rental agreements but are managed by the Housing Authority rather than a private landlord.

As a resident, you are responsible for keeping your unit clean and in good condition, paying rent on time, and following community policies. The Housing Authority handles maintenance and repairs to the building structure and major systems. If something breaks—plumbing, heating, appliances—you report it to HACC and they handle the repair. Understanding these responsibilities before you move in helps you know what to expect.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to live at Uldine?

Rent at Uldine is based on your household income, typically 30 percent of what you earn gross each month. There is no separate application fee or deposit. Your actual rent amount depends on your income and household size, so two households at Uldine may pay different amounts.

How long does it take to get into Uldine after I get on the waiting list?

The timeline varies widely depending on how many people are ahead of you and how many units become available. It can range from several months to over a year. The Housing Authority can give you a better estimate based on current conditions when you contact them.

What happens if my income increases while I live at Uldine?

Your rent will increase when your income increases. The Housing Authority reviews income annually and adjusts rent accordingly. However, there are limits to how much rent can increase in a single year, and the Housing Authority can discuss those limits with you.

Can I be denied housing at Uldine because of my rental history?

Rental history is part of the Housing Authority's review, but it does not automatically disqualify you. If you have evictions or unpaid rent, discuss this directly with HACC staff. They consider the circumstances and timing of past issues when making decisions.

Is Uldine only for seniors or families with children?

Uldine serves households of various compositions—individuals, families, seniors, and others—as long as they meet income limits. The Housing Authority can tell you which unit types are currently available and what household sizes they accommodate.