Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Tucson, Arizona
There is 1 open waiting list in the Tucson area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 2 housing authorities serving Tucson, Arizona 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 Tucson, 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 Tucson, Arizona
Tucson, Arizona is served by 2 housing authorities offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 1 waiting list is accepting applications in the Tucson area. There are also 3 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Tucson include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Mainstream, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing, RAD.
Latest Opening
Pima County Housing Authority opened its City of Tucson-Owned Affordable Housing waitlist on Jan 3, 2023.
About Housing in Tucson, Arizona
Tucson, Arizona, offers various affordable housing options primarily administered by two housing authorities: Housing and Community Development Tucson and the Pima County Housing Authority. These agencies work to provide rental assistance and affordable housing units to eligible low-income individuals and families. The Arizona Department of Housing also plays a role at the state level, overseeing housing efforts across the state.
Currently, there is 1 open housing waitlist in Tucson, while 8 other lists are closed. The open list is specifically for City of Tucson-Owned Affordable Housing. Programs typically offered in the area, though many lists are currently closed, include Moderate Rehab, Housing Choice Voucher (HCV), Mainstream, Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), and Public Housing. In total, there are approximately 7,061 assisted housing units available across the area.
Eligibility for most programs depends on income limits set by the federal government. For instance, a family of four considered "Very Low Income" in the Tucson, AZ MSA area must have an annual income no higher than $48,050, according to the FY2025 guidelines. Those seeking housing assistance should directly contact Housing and Community Development Tucson or the Pima County Housing Authority to inquire about specific program details, eligibility criteria, and when waitlists may reopen. It is crucial to check for updates regularly and apply promptly when opportunities become available.
Housing Authorities in Tucson
How to Apply for Section 8 in Tucson
To apply for housing assistance in Tucson, Arizona, submit an application directly to one of the 2 housing authorities serving the Tucson area (listed above). 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 $48,050/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 Tucson include City of Tucson-Owned Affordable Housing, Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Moderate Rehab, RAD, Mainstream. 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).
Tucson, Arizona Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Tucson, Arizona, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Tucson, AZ MSA area. A family of four must earn less than $48,050 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $96,100.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $20,200 | $33,650 | $53,850 |
| 2 Persons | $23,100 | $38,450 | $61,550 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $43,250 | $69,250 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $48,050 | $76,900 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $51,900 | $83,100 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $55,750 | $89,250 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $59,600 | $95,400 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $63,450 | $101,550 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Tucson 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 Tucson and have active housing programs.