Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Melbourne, Florida
There are 4 open waiting lists in the Melbourne area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 2 housing authorities serving Melbourne, 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 Melbourne, 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 Melbourne, Florida
Melbourne, Florida is served by 2 housing authorities offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 4 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Melbourne area. There are also 3 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Melbourne include Mainstream, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing. Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: Mainstream (2 open), PBV (2 open).
Latest Opening
Melbourne Housing Authority opened its PBV waitlist .
About Housing in Melbourne, Florida
For individuals and families seeking affordable housing assistance in Melbourne, Florida, two main housing authorities serve the area: the Housing Authority of Brevard County and the Melbourne Housing Authority. These agencies manage various programs designed to help reduce housing costs. Currently, there are 4 waiting lists open for applications, while 4 others are closed. The Melbourne area offers approximately 2,709 assisted housing units through these programs.
Understanding the types of assistance available is key. In Melbourne, programs include the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV), Mainstream Vouchers, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), and Public Housing. As of now, both HCV lists are closed to new applicants. However, applicants may find Mainstream Voucher lists open (2 currently open) and Project-Based Voucher lists open (2 currently open). All Public Housing lists are currently closed. Eligibility for these programs often depends on income. For example, a family of four seeking Very Low Income housing in the Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville, FL MSA area must have an annual income no higher than $49,950 for FY2025.
Further information regarding specific program requirements and application processes can be obtained directly from the housing authorities. The Florida Housing Finance Corporation also plays a role in state-level affordable housing initiatives, helping to support these efforts across the state. It is advisable for all interested applicants to contact the relevant housing authorities directly for the most current information and to understand all eligibility criteria before applying.
How to Apply for Section 8 in Melbourne
To apply for housing assistance in Melbourne, Florida, submit an application directly to one of the 2 housing authorities serving the Melbourne area (listed above). Right now, 4 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 $49,950/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 Melbourne include Mainstream, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), 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).
Melbourne, Florida Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Melbourne, Florida, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville, FL MSA area. A family of four must earn less than $49,950 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $99,900.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $21,000 | $35,000 | $55,950 |
| 2 Persons | $24,000 | $40,000 | $63,950 |
| 3 Persons | $27,000 | $45,000 | $71,950 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $49,950 | $79,900 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $53,950 | $86,300 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $57,950 | $92,700 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $61,950 | $99,100 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $65,950 | $105,500 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Melbourne 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 Melbourne and have active housing programs.