Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Bartow, Florida
All waiting lists in Bartow are currently closed. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Bartow, Florida 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 Bartow, 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 Bartow, Florida
Bartow, Florida is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Currently, all waitlists in Bartow are closed. Openings can happen with as little as 48 hours notice, so monitoring is critical. There are also 11 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Bartow include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing.
Open Lists Nearby
While no waitlists are open in Bartow right now, there are 11 open lists within 50 miles. Most housing authorities accept applications from non-residents, so applying in neighboring cities is a practical strategy. Scroll down to "Nearby Cities" below for options.
About Housing in Bartow, Florida
Bartow, Florida offers various affordable housing options for eligible residents. The primary local agency serving the area is the Housing Authority of Bartow. This authority manages programs designed to help individuals and families secure stable and affordable living situations. Currently, there are approximately 166 assisted housing units available across the area.
The Housing Authority of Bartow provides assistance through two main programs: the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program and Public Housing. Each program currently has one waiting list, both of which are closed. In total, there are zero open waiting lists and two closed waiting lists in Bartow at this time. For a family of four, the Very Low Income limit for the Lakeland-Winter Haven, FL Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) is $41,650 per year (FY2025). This income threshold helps determine eligibility for assistance.
Given that local waiting lists are currently closed, it is advisable for prospective applicants to regularly check with the Housing Authority of Bartow for updates on when lists may reopen. Preparing necessary documentation, such as income verification and identification, can help streamline the application process when opportunities become available. Additionally, the Florida Housing Finance Corporation serves as the state housing agency, offering broader resources and information on affordable housing initiatives across Florida.
Housing Authorities in Bartow
How to Apply for Section 8 in Bartow
To apply for housing assistance in Bartow, Florida, submit an application directly to Housing Authority of Bartow, the housing authority serving this area. All waitlists are currently closed, but openings happen with as little as 48 hours 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 $41,650/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 Bartow include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV). 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).
Bartow, Florida Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Bartow, Florida, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Lakeland-Winter Haven, FL MSA area. A family of four must earn less than $41,650 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $83,300.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $17,500 | $29,200 | $46,700 |
| 2 Persons | $21,150 | $33,350 | $53,350 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $37,500 | $60,000 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $41,650 | $66,650 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $45,000 | $72,000 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $48,350 | $77,350 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $51,650 | $82,650 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $55,000 | $88,000 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Bartow 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 Bartow and have active housing programs.