Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Cairo, Illinois
There is 1 open waiting list in the Cairo area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Cairo, 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 Cairo, 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 Cairo, Illinois
Cairo, 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 Cairo area. There are also 26 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Cairo include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV). Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Alexander County Housing Authority opened its Public Housing waitlist .
About Housing in Cairo, Illinois
For individuals seeking affordable housing in Cairo, Illinois, assistance is primarily managed by the Alexander County Housing Authority. This authority oversees approximately 173 assisted housing units within the area. Currently, there is one open waiting list and one closed waiting list in Cairo for various housing assistance programs.
The Alexander County Housing Authority offers Public Housing programs, for which one waiting list is currently open and accepting applications. The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, which also has one list, is presently closed for new applications. It is crucial for prospective applicants to directly contact the Alexander County Housing Authority for the most current information regarding specific program availability, application procedures, and eligibility requirements.
Income limitations are a key factor for eligibility. For instance, a family of four applying for very low-income housing assistance in the Cape Girardeau, MO-IL MSA area, which includes Cairo, must have an income at or below $45,250 per year for Fiscal Year 2025. The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) serves as the state's housing agency and may offer additional resources or information. Always verify all details directly with the housing authority.
Housing Authorities in Cairo
How to Apply for Section 8 in Cairo
To apply for housing assistance in Cairo, Illinois, submit an application directly to Alexander County Housing Authority, 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 $45,250/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 Cairo 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).
Cairo, Illinois Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Cairo, Illinois, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Cape Girardeau, MO-IL MSA area. A family of four must earn less than $45,250 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $98,100.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $19,050 | $31,650 | $50,700 |
| 2 Persons | $21,750 | $36,200 | $57,950 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $40,700 | $65,200 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $45,250 | $72,400 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $48,900 | $78,200 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $52,500 | $84,000 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $56,100 | $89,800 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $59,750 | $95,600 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Cairo 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 Cairo and have active housing programs.