Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Columbus, Indiana
All waiting lists in Columbus are currently closed. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Columbus, Indiana 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 Columbus, 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 Columbus, Indiana
Columbus, Indiana is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Currently, all waitlists in Columbus are closed. Openings can happen with as little as 48 hours notice, so monitoring is critical. There are also 5 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Columbus include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing.
Open Lists Nearby
While no waitlists are open in Columbus right now, there are 5 open lists within 50 miles. Most housing authorities accept applications from non-residents, so applying in neighboring cities is a practical strategy. Scroll down to "Nearby Cities" below for options.
About Housing in Columbus, Indiana
If you are seeking affordable housing assistance in Columbus, Indiana, the primary local provider is the Columbus Housing Authority. They administer key programs such as the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program and Public Housing. The Columbus area has approximately 907 assisted housing units. Currently, both the HCV program and Public Housing program waiting lists are closed, meaning new applications are not being accepted at this time.
Eligibility for these programs is typically based on household income and family size. For instance, a family of four is considered Very Low Income if their annual household income is at or below $51,100 in the Columbus, IN MSA area, according to FY2025 limits. While lists are closed, it is advisable to periodically check directly with the Columbus Housing Authority for any status updates or announcements regarding future openings. Additional information on state-level housing initiatives may be available through the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA).
Housing Authorities in Columbus
How to Apply for Section 8 in Columbus
To apply for housing assistance in Columbus, Indiana, submit an application directly to Columbus Housing Authority, the housing authority serving this area. All waitlists are currently closed, but openings happen with as little as 48 hours 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 $51,100/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 Columbus 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).
Columbus, Indiana Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Columbus, Indiana, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Columbus, IN MSA area. A family of four must earn less than $51,100 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $104,700.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $21,500 | $35,800 | $57,250 |
| 2 Persons | $24,550 | $40,900 | $65,400 |
| 3 Persons | $27,600 | $46,000 | $73,600 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $51,100 | $81,750 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $55,200 | $88,300 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $59,300 | $94,850 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $63,400 | $101,400 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $67,500 | $107,950 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Columbus 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 Columbus and have active housing programs.