Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Lake Wales, Florida
All waiting lists in Lake Wales are currently closed. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Lake Wales, 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 Lake Wales, 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 Lake Wales, Florida
Lake Wales, Florida is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Currently, all waitlists in Lake Wales are closed. Openings can happen with as little as 48 hours notice, so monitoring is critical. There are also 7 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Lake Wales include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing.
Open Lists Nearby
While no waitlists are open in Lake Wales right now, there are 7 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 Lake Wales, Florida
Individuals and families seeking affordable housing assistance in Lake Wales, Florida, are primarily served by the Lake Wales Housing Authority. This agency manages programs designed to help income-eligible residents secure stable housing. Currently, the Lake Wales Housing Authority has two housing waitlists that are closed, meaning new applications are not being accepted at this time. These closed lists cover both the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program and the Public Housing program. There are currently no open waitlists for either program.
Understanding eligibility requirements is an important first step for future applications. For instance, the Very Low Income limit for a family of four in the Lakeland-Winter Haven, FL MSA area is $41,650 per year, as per FY2025 guidelines. This income threshold is a key factor in determining eligibility for most housing assistance programs. Across the Lake Wales area, there are approximately 481 assisted housing units available to help low-income residents.
Prospective applicants should directly monitor the Lake Wales Housing Authority for any announcements regarding future waitlist openings. For broader information on affordable housing initiatives and resources within the state, the Florida Housing Finance Corporation serves as Florida's primary state housing agency.
Housing Authorities in Lake Wales
How to Apply for Section 8 in Lake Wales
To apply for housing assistance in Lake Wales, Florida, submit an application directly to Lake Wales Housing Authority, 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 Lake Wales include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing. 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).
Lake Wales, Florida Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Lake Wales, 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 Lake Wales 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 Lake Wales and have active housing programs.