Columbus, KS

Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Columbus, Kansas

There is 1 open waiting list in the Columbus area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Columbus, Kansas 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.

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Agencies
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Open Now
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Closed

Affordable Housing in Columbus, Kansas

Columbus, Kansas 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 Columbus area. There are also 25 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.

Housing programs available in Columbus include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV). Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: Public Housing (1 open).

Latest Opening

Columbus Housing Authority opened its Public Housing waitlist .

About Housing in Columbus, Kansas

For individuals and families seeking affordable housing assistance in Columbus, Kansas, the primary resource is the Columbus Housing Authority. This agency manages approximately 20 assisted housing units within the area. Currently, the Public Housing program administered by the Columbus Housing Authority has an open waiting list, meaning applications are being accepted. However, the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program waitlist, also overseen by the Columbus Housing Authority, is presently closed to new applicants.

Eligibility for these programs is determined by household income, among other factors. For instance, a family of four in the Cherokee County, KS HUD Metro FMR Area must not exceed an annual income of $42,050 to qualify as 'Very Low Income' for Fiscal Year 2025. These income limits are subject to change and vary based on family size. It is advisable for prospective applicants to contact the Columbus Housing Authority directly to confirm the most current income guidelines and specific program requirements, especially when a waiting list is open.

The Kansas Housing Resources Corporation (KHRC) operates as the state housing agency, providing oversight and resources for affordable housing initiatives throughout Kansas. While the Columbus Housing Authority is your local point of contact, staying informed about eligibility criteria and application procedures is crucial. When a waiting list is open, prompt application is generally recommended due to limited availability.

How to Apply for Section 8 in Columbus

To apply for housing assistance in Columbus, Kansas, submit an application directly to Columbus 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 $42,050/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 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).

Columbus, Kansas Section 8 Income Limits

To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Columbus, Kansas, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Cherokee County, KS HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $42,050 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $80,100.

Household Size Extremely Low
30% AMI
Very Low
50% AMI
Low Income
80% AMI
1 Person $17,700 $29,450 $47,150
2 Persons $21,150 $33,650 $53,850
3 Persons $26,650 $37,850 $60,600
4 Persons $32,150 $42,050 $67,300
5 Persons $37,650 $45,450 $72,700
6 Persons $43,150 $48,800 $78,100
7 Persons $48,650 $52,150 $83,500
8 Persons $54,150 $55,550 $88,850
Source: HUD FY 2025 Income Limits Area Median Income: $80,100 Effective April 1, 2025
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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there open Section 8 waiting lists in Columbus?
Yes — there are currently 1 open waiting list in Columbus, Kansas. Click into any housing authority above marked "Open" for application details and official portal links.
Can I apply for Section 8 in Columbus if I don't live there?
In most cases, yes. While some PHAs give preference to local residents, there is no federal rule requiring you to live in a city to apply for its waiting list. Many applicants apply to housing authorities in multiple cities and states simultaneously to increase their chances of receiving assistance.
How long is the wait for Section 8 in Columbus?
Wait times vary depending on demand, funding, and your priority status. National averages range from 6 months to 5+ years. Columbus wait times depend on the specific housing authority and program type. Contact the PHA directly for current estimates, and consider applying to multiple PHAs to improve your chances.
All housing authorities in Kansas