Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists by State
Section 8 Waitlist monitors 3,780 housing authorities across all 50 states and U.S. territories. As of today, 4805 waiting lists are currently accepting applications. Each state page includes every Public Housing Authority (PHA) in that state with real-time status, program types, application deadlines, and direct links to official portals.
The federal Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program and Public Housing program are administered locally by individual housing authorities. Eligibility requirements, wait times, and application processes vary significantly from state to state and even city to city. Use this directory to find your state, then drill down to specific housing authorities in your area.
States With Open Waitlists Right Now
These states currently have housing authorities accepting new applications. Waiting lists can close at any time once capacity is reached, so act quickly if you see an opening in your area.
All States
How to Use This Directory
Select Your State
Click on any state above to see all housing authorities in that state. Each state page shows the number of open and closed waiting lists, along with local housing tips and eligibility guidance.
Find Open Waiting Lists
Look for housing authorities marked with a green "Open" badge. These are currently accepting applications. Use the filter bar on each state page to narrow results by status or program type — Section 8 (HCV), Public Housing, or Project-Based Vouchers (PBV).
Apply Directly with the PHA
Click into any housing authority for detailed contact information, application links, and status history. Always apply through the official PHA portal — applying for Section 8 and Public Housing is completely free. Never pay anyone to submit an application on your behalf.
Apply to Multiple Lists
There is no limit to the number of waiting lists you can join. Many applicants apply to housing authorities in multiple cities and even multiple states to increase their chances. Average wait times range from 6 months to over 5 years depending on demand in the area.
Understanding Housing Assistance Programs
Section 8 / HCV
The Housing Choice Voucher program lets you choose your own rental unit in the private market. HUD pays the landlord the difference between 30% of your adjusted income and the approved rent amount. You are free to move to any area where the program is administered.
Eligibility: Income below 50% of Area Median Income (AMI)
Public Housing
Public Housing developments are owned and managed by local housing authorities. Rent is typically set at 30% of your adjusted income. Units range from single-family homes to high-rise apartments and are available in urban, suburban, and rural areas.
Eligibility: Income below 80% of AMI (priority below 30%)
Project-Based Vouchers
PBV assistance is tied to a specific apartment complex rather than a portable voucher. These often have shorter wait times because they are less well-known. The subsidy stays with the unit, so you must live in that specific property to receive assistance.
Eligibility: Same income limits as HCV, unit-specific