Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Chico, California
There are 2 open waiting lists in the Chico area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Chico, California 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 Chico, 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 Chico, California
Chico, California is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 2 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Chico area. There are also 3 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Chico 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
County of Butte Housing Authority opened its Public Housing waitlist on Feb 15, 2023.
About Housing in Chico, California
Chico, California offers various affordable housing options for eligible residents, primarily served by the County of Butte Housing Authority. This authority manages several programs designed to provide rental assistance and affordable housing units to those who qualify.
Currently, there are 3 open waiting lists in Chico, with 1 list recently closed. Programs available through the County of Butte Housing Authority include Chico Commons, Project-Based Voucher (PBV), and Public Housing. While the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program is also active in the region, its waiting list is presently closed. Approximately 2,629 assisted housing units are available across the Chico area.
To qualify for most affordable housing programs, applicants must meet specific income limits. For instance, a family of four in the Chico, CA MSA area with a Very Low Income would need to earn $46,950 per year or less, as of FY2025. It is essential for applicants to regularly check the County of Butte Housing Authority's official channels for up-to-date information on waiting list openings and specific program requirements. The California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) oversees housing efforts statewide, but local applications are managed by the County of Butte Housing Authority.
Housing Authorities in Chico
How to Apply for Section 8 in Chico
To apply for housing assistance in Chico, California, submit an application directly to County of Butte Housing Authority, the housing authority serving this area. Right now, 2 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 $46,950/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 Chico include Chico Commons, Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV). 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).
Chico, California Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Chico, California, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Chico, CA MSA area. A family of four must earn less than $46,950 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $90,700.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $19,750 | $32,900 | $52,600 |
| 2 Persons | $22,550 | $37,600 | $60,100 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $42,300 | $67,600 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $46,950 | $75,100 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $50,750 | $81,150 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $54,500 | $87,150 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $58,250 | $93,150 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $62,000 | $99,150 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Chico 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 Chico and have active housing programs.