Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Merced, California
There is 1 open waiting list in the Merced area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Merced, 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 Merced, 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 Merced, California
Merced, California is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 1 waiting list is accepting applications in the Merced area. There are also 4 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Merced include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), RAD, VASH, Public Housing.
Latest Opening
County of Merced Housing Authority opened its other waitlist .
About Housing in Merced, California
Affordable housing assistance in Merced, California, is primarily administered by the County of Merced Housing Authority. As of the latest information, all three of their waiting lists for housing assistance are currently closed, with no new applications being accepted at this time. This means that individuals and families seeking subsidized housing will need to regularly monitor the housing authority's announcements for future opportunities to apply.
Despite current closures, the County of Merced Housing Authority offers a range of vital programs designed to assist various populations. These include the Farm Labor Program, Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, Migrant housing, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing, Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD), VASH (Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing), and VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) programs. Merced has approximately 3,312 assisted housing units available across these initiatives. To qualify for many programs, household income must meet specific limits; for instance, the Very Low Income limit for a family of four in the Merced, CA MSA area for FY2025 is $46,950 per year.
Applicants should regularly check directly with the County of Merced Housing Authority for updates on when waiting lists may reopen. Additional resources and information regarding housing programs across the state can also be found through the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD).
How to Apply for Section 8 in Merced
To apply for housing assistance in Merced, California, submit an application directly to County of Merced Housing Authority, the housing authority serving this area. 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 $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 Merced include other, Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Farm Labor Program, RAD, Migrant, VASH, VAWA. 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).
Merced, California Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Merced, California, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Merced, 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 $84,000.
| 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 Merced 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 Merced and have active housing programs.