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Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Chattanooga, Tennessee
There is 1 open waiting list in the Chattanooga area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Chattanooga, Tennessee and updates statuses nightly. Below you will find every PHA in the area with current waitlist status, program types, and direct application links.
If no lists are currently open in Chattanooga, we recommend applying to nearby cities as well. There is no limit to the number of waiting lists you can join, and many housing authorities accept applications from non-residents.
Affordable Housing in Chattanooga, Tennessee
Chattanooga, Tennessee is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 1 waiting list is accepting applications in the Chattanooga area. There are also 21 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Chattanooga include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV). Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Chattanooga Housing Authority opened its Public Housing waitlist .
About Housing in Chattanooga, Tennessee
Seeking affordable housing in Chattanooga, Tennessee involves understanding the resources available through the Chattanooga Housing Authority (CHA). Currently, all five of CHA's housing waitlists are closed, meaning new applications are not being accepted at this time. These closed lists cover programs such as Housing Choice Voucher (HCV), Project-Based Voucher (PBV), Public Housing, Other Senior, and Other Senior Housing. Approximately 5,768 assisted housing units exist within the Chattanooga area.
While waitlists are closed, it's important for prospective applicants to monitor the Chattanooga Housing Authority for any announcements regarding future openings. When a waitlist opens, it is often for a limited time. For a family of four, the Very Low Income limit for the Chattanooga, TN-GA MSA area is $47,750 per year, as of FY2025. This income guideline helps determine eligibility for various housing assistance programs. The Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) also serves as the state housing agency, offering broader resources and information on housing initiatives across Tennessee.
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How to Apply for Section 8 in Chattanooga
To apply for housing assistance in Chattanooga, Tennessee, submit an application directly to Chattanooga Housing Authority, the housing authority serving this area. Right now, 1 waiting list is accepting applications — apply as soon as possible, as open enrollment periods can close with short notice. Applications are always free — never pay anyone to apply on your behalf.
Before applying, gather the following documents for all household members: government-issued photo ID, Social Security cards, birth certificates for minors, proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, benefit statements), and proof of current address. For a family of four in this area, income must be below $47,750/year (Very Low Income threshold) to qualify for most programs. Having these ready before a waitlist opens can be the difference between getting on the list and missing the window.
Housing programs available in Chattanooga include Public Housing, Other, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), PBRA, Other Senior Housing, Other Senior, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV). Applying to multiple program types simultaneously improves your chances of receiving assistance. After submitting, you will be placed on the waiting list based on the date of your application and any applicable preferences (veterans, elderly, disabled, working families, or local residents).
Chattanooga, Tennessee Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Chattanooga, Tennessee, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Chattanooga, TN-GA MSA area. A family of four must earn less than $47,750 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $95,600.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $20,100 | $33,450 | $53,500 |
| 2 Persons | $22,950 | $38,200 | $61,150 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $43,000 | $68,800 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $47,750 | $76,400 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $51,600 | $82,550 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $55,400 | $88,650 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $59,250 | $94,750 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $63,050 | $100,850 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Chattanooga use these income limits to determine who qualifies for rental assistance. Your total household income before taxes is compared against the limit for your household size.
Very Low Income (50% AMI) — Most Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers and Public Housing programs require your income to be at or below this level. This is the primary eligibility threshold.
Extremely Low Income (30% AMI) — Households at this level often receive priority on waiting lists. By law, housing authorities must allocate a portion of vouchers to extremely low-income families.
Low Income (80% AMI) — Some programs, including Project-Based Vouchers and locally funded initiatives, accept applicants up to this threshold. Contact individual housing authorities below for their specific requirements.
Nearby Cities with Housing Authorities
Applying to nearby cities increases your chances of receiving assistance sooner. These cities are within 75 miles of Chattanooga and have active housing programs.