Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in San Jose, California
There are 2 open waiting lists in the San Jose area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 2 housing authorities serving San Jose, 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 San Jose, 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 San Jose, California
San Jose, California is served by 2 housing authorities offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 2 waiting lists are accepting applications in the San Jose area. There are also 23 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in San Jose include Mainstream, RAD, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV).
Latest Opening
Housing Authority of the City of San Jose opened its Affordable Housing Listings waitlist .
About Housing in San Jose, California
San Jose, California, is served by two primary housing authorities: the Santa Clara County Housing Authority and the Housing Authority of the City of San Jose. Navigating affordable housing options in the area requires understanding the available programs and their current status. While there are approximately 19,409 assisted housing units in the region, securing assistance can be competitive. Currently, there are 2 open waiting lists out of a total of 12 (10 closed).
Several types of programs exist to help residents, including Public Housing, RAD, Mainstream, HCV (Housing Choice Voucher), and PBV (Project-Based Voucher). Based on current information, all of these specific program lists are closed. However, there is one open waiting list for "Other" programs and one for "Affordable Housing Listings." Eligibility for these programs often depends on income. For instance, the Very Low Income limit for a family of four in the San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA HUD Metro FMR Area for FY2025 is $100,450 per year.
It is important for applicants to regularly check the status of these waiting lists directly with the housing authorities, as they can open and close based on need and funding. The California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) also plays a role in state-level housing initiatives. Prospective applicants should prepare all necessary documentation and apply promptly when new opportunities arise.
Housing Authorities in San Jose
How to Apply for Section 8 in San Jose
To apply for housing assistance in San Jose, California, submit an application directly to one of the 2 housing authorities serving the San Jose area (listed above). 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 $100,450/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 San Jose include Other, Affordable Housing Listings, Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Mainstream, RAD, 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).
San Jose, California Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in San Jose, California, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $100,450 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $195,200.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $42,200 | $70,350 | $111,700 |
| 2 Persons | $48,200 | $80,400 | $127,650 |
| 3 Persons | $54,250 | $90,450 | $143,600 |
| 4 Persons | $60,250 | $100,450 | $159,550 |
| 5 Persons | $65,100 | $108,500 | $172,350 |
| 6 Persons | $69,900 | $116,550 | $185,100 |
| 7 Persons | $74,750 | $124,600 | $197,850 |
| 8 Persons | $79,550 | $132,600 | $210,650 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in San Jose 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 San Jose and have active housing programs.