Mobile, AL

Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Mobile, Alabama

There are 3 open waiting lists in the Mobile area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Mobile, Alabama 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 Mobile, 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.

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Open Now
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Closed

Affordable Housing in Mobile, Alabama

Mobile, Alabama is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 3 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Mobile area. There are also 18 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.

Housing programs available in Mobile include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Mainstream, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV). Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: Public Housing (1 open).

Latest Opening

Mobile Housing Authority opened its Public Housing waitlist on Mar 30, 2026. Applications close Apr 6, 2026 — apply early.

About Housing in Mobile, Alabama

For individuals and families seeking affordable housing assistance in Mobile, Alabama, the primary provider is the Mobile Housing Authority (MHA). This agency manages approximately 6,362 assisted housing units throughout the area. Prospective applicants should understand the available programs and their current status. Applying to waitlists requires careful attention to eligibility criteria, which typically includes income limits and household size.

Currently, the Mobile Housing Authority has 4 waiting lists open for applications. These include programs for Other Senior, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing, and Senior Living. Two lists are currently closed: Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV) and Mainstream Vouchers. Eligibility for these programs often depends on income. For example, a very low-income family of four in the Mobile, AL Metropolitan Statistical Area has an annual income limit of $40,750 for FY2025. The Alabama Housing Finance Authority (AHFA) also serves as the state's housing finance agency. It is crucial to confirm the specific income and other requirements for each program directly with the Mobile Housing Authority, as details can change.

How to Apply for Section 8 in Mobile

To apply for housing assistance in Mobile, Alabama, submit an application directly to Mobile Housing Authority, the housing authority serving this area. Right now, 3 waiting lists are 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 $40,750/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 Mobile include Other Senior, Senior Living, Public Housing, Mainstream, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), 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).

Mobile, Alabama Section 8 Income Limits

To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Mobile, Alabama, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Mobile, AL MSA area. A family of four must earn less than $40,750 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $81,500.

Household Size Extremely Low
30% AMI
Very Low
50% AMI
Low Income
80% AMI
1 Person $17,150 $28,550 $45,650
2 Persons $21,150 $32,600 $52,200
3 Persons $26,650 $36,700 $58,700
4 Persons $32,150 $40,750 $65,200
5 Persons $37,650 $44,050 $70,450
6 Persons $43,150 $47,300 $75,650
7 Persons $48,650 $50,550 $80,850
8 Persons $53,800 $53,800 $86,100
Source: HUD FY 2025 Income Limits Area Median Income: $81,500 Effective April 1, 2025
How do income limits affect my eligibility?

Housing authorities in Mobile 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there open Section 8 waiting lists in Mobile?
Yes — there are currently 3 open waiting lists in Mobile, Alabama. Click into any housing authority above marked "Open" for application details and official portal links.
Can I apply for Section 8 in Mobile if I don't live there?
In most cases, yes. While some PHAs give preference to local residents, there is no federal rule requiring you to live in a city to apply for its waiting list. Many applicants apply to housing authorities in multiple cities and states simultaneously to increase their chances of receiving assistance.
How long is the wait for Section 8 in Mobile?
Wait times vary depending on demand, funding, and your priority status. National averages range from 6 months to 5+ years. Mobile wait times depend on the specific housing authority and program type. Contact the PHA directly for current estimates, and consider applying to multiple PHAs to improve your chances.
All housing authorities in Alabama