Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Eureka, California
There are 12 open waiting lists in the Eureka area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 2 housing authorities serving Eureka, 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 Eureka, 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 Eureka, California
Eureka, California is served by 2 housing authorities offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 12 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Eureka area.
Housing programs available in Eureka include Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing, VASH, RAD, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Mainstream. Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: PBV (2 open), Public Housing (2 open), VASH (2 open).
Latest Opening
Housing Authority of the County of Humboldt opened its PBV waitlist on Feb 1, 2022.
About Housing in Eureka, California
Eureka, California offers affordable housing assistance primarily through two agencies: the Housing Authority of the County of Humboldt and the Housing Authority of the City of Eureka. These authorities collectively manage approximately 1,602 assisted housing units in the area. Currently, there are 12 open waiting lists available for various housing programs, with 4 lists presently closed.
Programs that frequently have open waiting lists include Eureka Senior Housing, Senior Housing, VASH, Mainstream, PBV, and Public Housing. While programs such as HCV, RAD, Laurel Canyon, and Other currently have closed lists, it is advisable for applicants to regularly check for updates on their status. Eligibility for these programs is based on income. For example, the Very Low Income limit for a family of four in Humboldt County for Fiscal Year 2025 is $46,950 per year. The California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) serves as the state housing agency, providing oversight and resources.
Housing Authorities in Eureka
Housing Authority of the City of Eureka
Eureka, California · CA025
Housing Authority of the County of Humboldt
Eureka, California · CA086
How to Apply for Section 8 in Eureka
To apply for housing assistance in Eureka, California, submit an application directly to one of the 2 housing authorities serving the Eureka area (listed above). Right now, 12 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 Eureka include Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Other, Senior Housing, Eureka Senior Housing, Other - Senior Housing, VASH, Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Mainstream, RAD, Laurel Canyon. 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).
Eureka, California Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Eureka, California, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Humboldt County, CA 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 $80,100.
| 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 Eureka 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 Eureka and have active housing programs.