Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Opelika, Alabama
There are 3 open waiting lists in the Opelika area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Opelika, 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 Opelika, 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 Opelika, Alabama
Opelika, 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 Opelika area. There are also 18 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Opelika include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV). Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Opelika Housing Authority opened its Public Housing waitlist on Feb 19, 2026.
About Housing in Opelika, Alabama
Opelika, Alabama provides affordable housing opportunities primarily through the Opelika Housing Authority, which serves the community with approximately 531 assisted housing units. Individuals and families seeking housing assistance should be aware that there are currently 3 open waiting lists, while 1 list is closed.
Programs with open waiting lists include Multifamily, Multifamily Housing, and Public Housing. It is important to note that the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program currently has a closed waiting list. Eligibility for these programs is typically income-based. For instance, a family of four considered Very Low Income in the Auburn-Opelika, AL HUD Metro FMR Area must have an annual income no higher than $47,650, based on FY2025 guidelines.
Prospective applicants should contact the Opelika Housing Authority directly for the most current information on eligibility requirements, specific program details, and how to apply for available waiting lists. The Alabama Housing Finance Authority (AHFA) also functions as the state's housing agency and can be a resource for broader housing initiatives.
Housing Authorities in Opelika
How to Apply for Section 8 in Opelika
To apply for housing assistance in Opelika, Alabama, submit an application directly to Opelika 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 $47,650/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 Opelika include Multifamily, Multifamily Housing, Public Housing, 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).
Opelika, Alabama Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Opelika, Alabama, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Auburn-Opelika, AL HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $47,650 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $95,300.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $20,050 | $33,400 | $53,400 |
| 2 Persons | $22,900 | $38,150 | $61,000 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $42,900 | $68,650 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $47,650 | $76,250 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $51,500 | $82,350 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $55,300 | $88,450 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $59,100 | $94,550 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $62,900 | $100,650 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Opelika 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 Opelika and have active housing programs.