Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Chicago, Illinois
There are 8 open waiting lists in the Chicago area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 3 housing authorities serving Chicago, 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 Chicago, 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 Chicago, Illinois
Chicago, Illinois is served by 3 housing authorities offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 8 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Chicago area. There are also 10 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Chicago include Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing, Mainstream, RAD. Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: PBV (2 open), HCV (1 open), Public Housing (1 open).
Closing Soon in Chicago
Housing Authority Cook County — PBV waitlist closes Apr 9, 2026
Latest Opening
Housing Authority Cook County opened its PBV waitlist on Apr 7, 2026. Applications close Apr 9, 2026 — apply early.
About Housing in Chicago, Illinois
Seeking affordable housing in Chicago, Illinois involves navigating programs offered by three main housing authorities: the Chicago Housing Authority (CHA), the Housing Authority Cook County (HACC), and the state's Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA). These agencies collectively manage a substantial number of assisted housing units, totaling approximately 95,171 throughout the area. While 9 waiting lists are currently closed, there are 5 waiting lists open for new applications, indicating ongoing opportunities for assistance.
Applicants can explore various program types, including Housing Choice Voucher (HCV), Project-Based Voucher (PBV), and Public Housing programs, all of which currently have at least one open waiting list. Additionally, a Project-Based Rental Assistance (PBRA) list is open, alongside opportunities available under other specific program categories. Many other programs such as RAD, Mainstream, and Rental Housing Support are available in the area, but their waiting lists are presently closed. Eligibility for these programs often depends on income; for example, a Very Low Income family of four in the Chicago-Joliet-Naperville, IL HUD Metro FMR Area must have an annual income no higher than $59,950.
Housing Authorities in Chicago
Chicago Housing Authority
Chicago, Illinois · IL002
Housing Authority Cook County
Chicago, Illinois · IL025
Illinois Housing Development Authority
Chicago, Illinois · IL901
How to Apply for Section 8 in Chicago
To apply for housing assistance in Chicago, Illinois, submit an application directly to one of the 3 housing authorities serving the Chicago area (listed above). Right now, 8 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 $59,950/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 Chicago include other, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), PBRA, Rental Housing Support Program, Mod Rehab, Other, Affordable Multi-Family Housing, Other Senior, Mainstream, RAD, Moderate Rehabilitation Program. 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).
Chicago, Illinois Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Chicago, Illinois, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Chicago-Joliet-Naperville, IL HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $59,950 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $119,900.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $25,200 | $42,000 | $67,150 |
| 2 Persons | $28,800 | $48,000 | $76,750 |
| 3 Persons | $32,400 | $54,000 | $86,350 |
| 4 Persons | $35,950 | $59,950 | $95,900 |
| 5 Persons | $38,850 | $64,750 | $103,600 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $69,550 | $111,250 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $74,350 | $118,950 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $79,150 | $126,600 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Chicago 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 Chicago and have active housing programs.