Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Paris, Illinois
There are 2 open waiting lists in the Paris area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Paris, 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 Paris, 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 Paris, Illinois
Paris, Illinois is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 2 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Paris area. There are also 12 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Paris include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing. Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: HCV (1 open), Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Housing Authority of Edgar County opened its HCV waitlist on Mar 19, 2026.
About Housing in Paris, Illinois
Affordable housing options in Paris, Illinois, are primarily overseen by the Housing Authority of Edgar County. This authority serves residents by administering two crucial programs: the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program and Public Housing. Individuals seeking assistance will find that there are currently two open waiting lists managed by the Housing Authority of Edgar County, with one list specifically for the HCV program and another for Public Housing.
To be eligible for many of these programs, income limits apply. For instance, a family of four in Edgar County with a Very Low Income is currently capped at $43,300 per year, according to Fiscal Year 2025 guidelines. Across the area, there are approximately 279 assisted housing units available to help meet the community's needs. The state's housing efforts are further supported by the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA).
For those interested in applying, it is highly recommended to directly contact the Housing Authority of Edgar County. They can provide detailed information on specific program requirements, current waiting list statuses, and guide you through the application process. Preparing necessary documentation in advance will help facilitate a smoother application experience.
Housing Authorities in Paris
How to Apply for Section 8 in Paris
To apply for housing assistance in Paris, Illinois, submit an application directly to Housing Authority of Edgar County, the housing authority serving this area. Right now, 2 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 $43,300/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 Paris include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing. 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).
Paris, Illinois Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Paris, Illinois, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Edgar County, IL area. A family of four must earn less than $43,300 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $80,300.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $18,200 | $30,350 | $48,550 |
| 2 Persons | $21,150 | $34,650 | $55,450 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $39,000 | $62,400 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $43,300 | $69,300 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $46,800 | $74,850 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $50,250 | $80,400 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $53,700 | $85,950 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $57,200 | $91,500 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Paris 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 Paris and have active housing programs.