Public housing agencies can now use AffordableHousing.com’s “Where Kids Grow Up to Earn More” map layer to help families identify higher-opportunity neighborhoods and to support compliance with Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program regulations.

This tool, powered by the Opportunity Atlas and built directly into AffordableHousing.com’s housing search, allows Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) to visually demonstrate how neighborhood conditions affect long-term outcomes for children. HUD’s Housing Mobility Toolkit lists the Opportunity Atlas as one of the “pre-established indices” PHAs may use to meet this requirement.

Compliance with HUD Regulations

The Section 8 Management Assessment Program (SEMAP) Indicator 7, HUD’s report card for the HCV program, evaluates whether PHAs are expanding housing opportunities outside areas of poverty or minority concentration. One way to earn points is by sharing information with families about opportunity-rich neighborhoods, as defined by trusted resources.  

What the Map Layer Shows

The “Where Kids Grow Up to Earn More” (Opportunity Atlas) map layer shows how children who grew up in each Census tract between 1978–1983 fared as adults—specifically focusing on average household income, college attendance, and incarceration rates.

PHAs and families can use this layer to:

• Understand how neighborhood conditions influence long-term outcomes

• Identify areas that may offer stronger opportunities for voucher holders

• Compare options across regions using color-coded data

This map is now live and accessible directly on AffordableHousing.com with no login required.

How PHAs Can Utilize the Map  

PHAs can incorporate the map feature into briefing materials and internal documentation to comply with HUD regulations. A PHA must (a) build these “areas of opportunity” materials into every voucher briefing packet, (b) add a policy to its Administrative Plan, and (c) demonstrate at SEMAP review that it is actively using maps, owner lists, and other tools to help families consider and lease in those neighborhoods.  

Recommended uses include:

1. In Briefing Packets

• Include a screenshot of the map showcasing local opportunity discoverability (darker green areas indicate higher opportunity)

• Use a brief caption explaining the map's purpose

Sample caption:

"This map uses data from the Opportunity Atlas to show areas where children from low-income families have historically had better economic outcomes. These areas may offer long-term advantages for voucher holders."

2. Live Demonstrations During Briefings

• Show the map in virtual or in-person sessions

• Compare neighborhoods and highlight units in high-opportunity areas

• Use the map alongside school ratings or air quality map layers

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Families

Provide a one-pager or handout that walks families through how to use the map layer, including:

• Navigating to AffordableHousing.com

• Enabling the “Where Kids Grow Up to Earn More” map layer

• Reading and interpreting the map

4. Documentation for SEMAP Files

To satisfy HUD documentation requirements, PHAs should retain:

• A copy of the briefing packet with the Opportunity Atlas explanation and screenshots

• Briefing agendas, presentation slides, or video screenshots showing use of the tool

• Written policy or staff notes on how the tool is introduced to participants

• A copy of instructions or resource handouts given to families

Recommended Tools for Compliance

• AffordableHousing.com’s FREE HCV Briefing Flyer “Finding HighOpportunity Neighborhoods with the Opportunity Atlas” (Download Here)

• AffordableHousing.com’s FREE custom housing locator set to PHA’s jurisdiction

• Nan McKay & Associates and AffordableHousing.com's HCV Briefing Video

• Nan McKay & Associates Model Administrative Plan

Visit https://info.affordablehousing.com/hcv-briefing-video for more information.

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