Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Kankakee, Illinois
There is 1 open waiting list in the Kankakee area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Kankakee, 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 Kankakee, 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 Kankakee, Illinois
Kankakee, 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 Kankakee area. There are also 4 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Kankakee include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV). Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Kankakee County Housing Authority opened its Public Housing waitlist .
About Housing in Kankakee, Illinois
Individuals seeking affordable housing in Kankakee, Illinois, are primarily served by the Kankakee County Housing Authority. This agency manages various programs designed to assist low-income families and individuals. Currently, there are approximately 1,145 assisted housing units available in the Kankakee area. As of now, the Kankakee County Housing Authority has one waiting list open for its Public Housing program. The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program currently has one waiting list, but it is closed to new applicants. Applicants should verify the specific requirements for the open Public Housing list.
Eligibility for affordable housing programs in Kankakee is determined by several factors, including income. For example, a very low-income limit for a family of four in the Kankakee, IL MSA area for FY2025 is set at $45,600 per year. It is important to confirm the specific income limits and criteria directly with the Kankakee County Housing Authority for the program you are interested in, as these can vary and are subject to change. The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) also supports affordable housing initiatives statewide. Prospective applicants should gather all necessary documentation and follow application instructions carefully when a waiting list is open.
Housing Authorities in Kankakee
How to Apply for Section 8 in Kankakee
To apply for housing assistance in Kankakee, Illinois, submit an application directly to Kankakee 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 $45,600/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 Kankakee 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).
Kankakee, Illinois Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Kankakee, Illinois, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Kankakee, IL MSA area. A family of four must earn less than $45,600 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $91,200.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $19,150 | $31,950 | $51,100 |
| 2 Persons | $21,900 | $36,500 | $58,400 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $41,050 | $65,700 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $45,600 | $72,950 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $49,250 | $78,800 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $52,900 | $84,650 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $56,550 | $90,500 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $60,200 | $96,300 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Kankakee 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 Kankakee and have active housing programs.