Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Baton Rouge, Louisiana
There are 4 open waiting lists in the Baton Rouge area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 2 housing authorities serving Baton Rouge, Louisiana 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 Baton Rouge, 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 Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Baton Rouge, Louisiana is served by 2 housing authorities offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 4 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Baton Rouge area. There are also 18 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Baton Rouge include Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), VASH, Public Housing, RAD, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Mainstream.
Latest Opening
Housing Authority of East Baton Rouge opened its THRIVE/FSS Program waitlist on Mar 31, 2026.
About Housing in Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Baton Rouge, Louisiana offers various affordable housing options, primarily administered by two key authorities: the Housing Authority of East Baton Rouge and the Louisiana Housing Authority. These agencies collectively manage approximately 7,186 assisted housing units within the area. Currently, 3 waiting lists are open, though 14 others are closed, indicating limited but existing opportunities for assistance.
Programs available through these authorities include Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), and Permanent Supportive Housing. Specific open waiting lists include Permanent Supportive Housing, the THRIVE/FSS Program, and other specialized programs. Eligibility for most affordable housing assistance is income-based; for instance, a family of four in the Baton Rouge, LA HUD Metro FMR Area is considered Very Low Income with an annual household income up to $45,850 for FY2025. The Louisiana Housing Corporation (LHC) also supports statewide affordable housing efforts. Those seeking assistance are encouraged to regularly check for updates directly from the Housing Authority of East Baton Rouge and the Louisiana Housing Authority, as waitlist statuses can change.
Housing Authorities in Baton Rouge
Housing Authority of East Baton Rouge
Baton Rouge, Louisiana · LA003
Louisiana Housing Authority
Baton Rouge, Louisiana · LA903
How to Apply for Section 8 in Baton Rouge
To apply for housing assistance in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, submit an application directly to one of the 2 housing authorities serving the Baton Rouge area (listed above). Right now, 4 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 $45,850/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 Baton Rouge include THRIVE/FSS Program, other, Permanent Supportive Housing, PSH, VASH, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), PSH (Permanent Supportive Housing), Homeownership Program, Public Housing, SRO, Homeownership, RAD, Moderate Rehabilitation, Mod Rehab, Mod-Rehab, Mainstream. 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).
Baton Rouge, Louisiana Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Baton Rouge, LA HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $45,850 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $91,700.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $19,250 | $32,100 | $51,350 |
| 2 Persons | $22,000 | $36,700 | $58,700 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $41,300 | $66,050 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $45,850 | $73,350 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $49,550 | $79,250 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $53,200 | $85,100 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $56,900 | $91,000 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $60,550 | $96,850 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Baton Rouge 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 Baton Rouge and have active housing programs.