Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Galena, Illinois
There is 1 open waiting list in the Galena area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Galena, 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 Galena, 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 Galena, Illinois
Galena, 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 Galena area. There are also 16 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Galena 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 of the County of JoDaviess opened its Public Housing waitlist on Feb 26, 2026.
About Housing in Galena, Illinois
Seeking affordable housing options in Galena, Illinois often involves understanding the local resources available. The Housing Authority of the County of JoDaviess is the primary agency serving this area, offering programs to assist eligible low-income individuals and families.
Currently, the Housing Authority of the County of JoDaviess has one Public Housing waitlist open for new applications. Their Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program waitlist, however, is currently closed. It is important for applicants to contact the Housing Authority directly for the most up-to-date information on application procedures and requirements for Public Housing. There are approximately 155 assisted housing units available across the area. For a family of four, the Very Low Income limit is $50,350 per year for FY2025 in Jo Daviess County.
The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) also supports affordable housing initiatives statewide. Individuals interested in applying for assistance in Galena should prioritize contacting the Housing Authority of the County of JoDaviess to confirm eligibility and application status. Keep in mind that waitlists can be long, so applying when a list is open is advisable.
Housing Authorities in Galena
How to Apply for Section 8 in Galena
To apply for housing assistance in Galena, Illinois, submit an application directly to Housing Authority of the County of JoDaviess, 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 $50,350/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 Galena 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).
Galena, Illinois Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Galena, Illinois, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Jo Daviess County, IL area. A family of four must earn less than $50,350 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $101,100.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $21,150 | $35,250 | $56,400 |
| 2 Persons | $24,200 | $40,300 | $64,450 |
| 3 Persons | $27,200 | $45,300 | $72,500 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $50,350 | $80,550 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $54,350 | $87,000 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $58,400 | $93,450 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $62,450 | $99,900 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $66,500 | $106,350 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Galena 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 Galena and have active housing programs.