Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Alton, Illinois
There is 1 open waiting list in the Alton area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Alton, Illinois 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 Alton, 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 Alton, Illinois
Alton, Illinois is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 1 waiting list is accepting applications in the Alton area. There are also 20 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Alton include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV). Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Housing Authority - City of Alton opened its Public Housing waitlist on Feb 24, 2026.
About Housing in Alton, Illinois
Alton, Illinois, offers affordable housing resources primarily through the Housing Authority - City of Alton. This local agency manages housing assistance programs designed to help low-income families, the elderly, and people with disabilities secure stable housing. Currently, the Housing Authority - City of Alton has one waiting list open for its Public Housing program.
For those seeking assistance, it's important to note the status of available programs. While the Public Housing waiting list is currently open, the waiting list for the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program is closed. There are approximately 255 assisted housing units in the Alton area. Eligibility for these programs depends on various factors, including income. For instance, a family of four seeking very low-income assistance in the St. Louis, MO-IL HUD Metro FMR Area (which includes Alton) had an income limit of $55,700 per year as of FY2025. Applicants should verify the most current income limits directly with the housing authority.
The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) is the state housing agency that may also provide resources and information on affordable housing initiatives across Illinois. When applying for any housing program, it is crucial to ensure all application materials are complete and submitted accurately. Regularly checking the status of waiting lists and keeping contact information updated with the Housing Authority - City of Alton is also advised.
Housing Authorities in Alton
How to Apply for Section 8 in Alton
To apply for housing assistance in Alton, Illinois, submit an application directly to Housing Authority - City of Alton, the housing authority serving this area. Right now, 1 waiting list is 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 $55,700/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 Alton 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).
Alton, Illinois Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Alton, Illinois, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the St. Louis, MO-IL HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $55,700 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $111,400.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $23,400 | $39,000 | $62,400 |
| 2 Persons | $26,750 | $44,600 | $71,300 |
| 3 Persons | $30,100 | $50,150 | $80,200 |
| 4 Persons | $33,400 | $55,700 | $89,100 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $60,200 | $96,250 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $64,650 | $103,400 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $69,100 | $110,500 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $73,550 | $117,650 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Alton 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 Alton and have active housing programs.