Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in West Memphis, Arkansas
There are 3 open waiting lists in the West Memphis area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 2 housing authorities serving West Memphis, Arkansas 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 West Memphis, 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 West Memphis, Arkansas
West Memphis, Arkansas is served by 2 housing authorities offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 3 waiting lists are accepting applications in the West Memphis area. There are also 30 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in West Memphis include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Mainstream, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), RAD. Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: Public Housing (2 open), HCV (1 open).
Latest Opening
West Memphis Housing Authority opened its HCV waitlist on Mar 22, 2026.
About Housing in West Memphis, Arkansas
For individuals and families seeking affordable housing assistance in West Memphis, Arkansas, services are primarily provided by two housing authorities: the West Memphis Housing Authority and the Earle Housing Authority. These agencies manage approximately 951 assisted housing units throughout the area, aiming to provide safe and affordable options for eligible residents.
Currently, there are 3 open waiting lists for housing assistance in West Memphis, with 1 list currently closed. Available programs include Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), which currently has 1 open list out of 2. Both Public Housing lists are open. Other programs like Mainstream, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), and Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) currently have no open lists in the area. Eligibility for most programs is based on income. For example, a family of four must generally have a gross annual income below $45,550 to qualify as Very Low Income, as defined for the Memphis, TN-MS-AR HUD Metro FMR Area for FY2025. The Arkansas Development Finance Authority (ADFA) serves as the state's housing finance agency. When applying, ensure all required documentation is complete and submitted promptly to the relevant housing authority.
How to Apply for Section 8 in West Memphis
To apply for housing assistance in West Memphis, Arkansas, submit an application directly to one of the 2 housing authorities serving the West Memphis area (listed above). 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 $45,550/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 West Memphis include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), RAD, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), 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).
West Memphis, Arkansas Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in West Memphis, Arkansas, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Memphis, TN-MS-AR HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $45,550 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $91,100.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $19,150 | $31,900 | $51,050 |
| 2 Persons | $21,900 | $36,450 | $58,350 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $41,000 | $65,650 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $45,550 | $72,900 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $49,200 | $78,750 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $52,850 | $84,600 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $56,500 | $90,400 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $60,150 | $96,250 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in West Memphis 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 West Memphis and have active housing programs.