Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Boise, Idaho
There are 10 open waiting lists in the Boise area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 3 housing authorities serving Boise, Idaho 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 Boise, 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 Boise, Idaho
Boise, Idaho is served by 3 housing authorities offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 10 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Boise area. There are also 15 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Boise include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Mainstream, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing, RAD. Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: HCV (1 open), Mainstream (1 open).
Latest Opening
Ada County Housing Authority opened its Other (Market Rate Housing - Hobbler Place) waitlist .
About Housing in Boise, Idaho
Finding affordable housing in Boise, Idaho is supported by three key housing authorities: the Idaho Housing and Finance Association (IHFA), Boise City Housing Authority, and Ada County Housing Authority. IHFA also serves as the state's primary housing agency. Across the area, there are approximately 6,397 assisted housing units. For those seeking assistance, it is important to know that out of 17 total waiting lists, 10 are currently open while 7 are closed.
Currently open waiting lists include one for Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), two "Other" program lists, two Market Rate Housing lists, one for Market Rate Housing specifically at Hobbler Place, one general Market Rate list, and one Mainstream program list. Programs such as Public Housing, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), and RAD currently have no open waiting lists. For a family of four in the Boise City, ID HUD Metro FMR Area, the Very Low Income limit is $53,500 per year, as of FY2025. Applicants are encouraged to research eligibility requirements thoroughly and apply to open lists promptly, as demand for affordable housing often exceeds availability.
Housing Authorities in Boise
Ada County Housing Authority
Boise, Idaho · ID021
Boise City Housing Authority
Boise, Idaho · ID013
Idaho Housing and Finance Association
Boise, Idaho · ID901
How to Apply for Section 8 in Boise
To apply for housing assistance in Boise, Idaho, submit an application directly to one of the 3 housing authorities serving the Boise area (listed above). Right now, 10 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 $53,500/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 Boise include Other, Market Rate, other, Market Rate Housing, Other (Market Rate Housing - Hobbler Place), Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Mainstream, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing, RAD. 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).
Boise, Idaho Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Boise, Idaho, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Boise City, ID HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $53,500 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $108,800.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $22,500 | $37,450 | $59,950 |
| 2 Persons | $25,700 | $42,800 | $68,500 |
| 3 Persons | $28,900 | $48,150 | $77,050 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $53,500 | $85,600 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $57,800 | $92,450 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $62,050 | $99,300 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $66,350 | $106,150 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $70,650 | $113,000 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Boise 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 Boise and have active housing programs.