Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Gary, Indiana
All waiting lists in Gary are currently closed. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Gary, 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 Gary, 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 Gary, Indiana
Gary, Indiana is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Currently, all waitlists in Gary are closed. Openings can happen with as little as 48 hours notice, so monitoring is critical. There are also 14 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Gary include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing.
Open Lists Nearby
While no waitlists are open in Gary right now, there are 14 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 Gary, Indiana
Individuals seeking affordable housing assistance in Gary, Indiana are primarily served by the Housing Authority of the City of Gary Indiana. This authority is responsible for administering key programs designed to help low-income families, seniors, and individuals secure safe and affordable places to live. Currently, all three of the waiting lists managed by this housing authority are closed to new applications. These closed lists pertain to critical housing programs including Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), and Public Housing.
While lists are presently closed, understanding the available programs and requirements is essential for future applicants. The Gary area benefits from approximately 3,336 assisted housing units across these various programs. For instance, a family of four applying for Very Low Income assistance in the Gary, IN HUD Metro FMR Area must have an annual income at or below $47,800, based on FY2025 income limits. When waiting lists reopen, it is critical to apply promptly and accurately. Applicants should ensure they meet specific eligibility criteria, which typically include income limits and other program-specific requirements. The Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA) also plays a role in state-level housing initiatives, though direct application for these local programs goes through the Housing Authority of the City of Gary Indiana.
Housing Authorities in Gary
How to Apply for Section 8 in Gary
To apply for housing assistance in Gary, Indiana, submit an application directly to Housing Authority of the City of Gary Indiana, 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 $47,800/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 Gary include Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), 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).
Gary, Indiana Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Gary, Indiana, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Gary, IN HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $47,800 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $95,600.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $20,100 | $33,500 | $53,550 |
| 2 Persons | $23,000 | $38,250 | $61,200 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $43,050 | $68,850 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $47,800 | $76,500 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $51,650 | $82,650 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $55,450 | $88,750 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $59,300 | $94,900 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $63,100 | $101,000 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Gary 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 Gary and have active housing programs.