Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Ellsworth, Maine
There are 3 open waiting lists in the Ellsworth area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Ellsworth, Maine 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 Ellsworth, 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 Ellsworth, Maine
Ellsworth, Maine is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 3 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Ellsworth area. There are also 25 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Ellsworth include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV). Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: HCV (1 open), Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Ellsworth Housing Authority opened its Rural Development waitlist .
About Housing in Ellsworth, Maine
Affordable housing in Ellsworth, Maine is primarily managed by the Ellsworth Housing Authority. This agency oversees programs designed to assist individuals and families with housing needs in the area. Currently, two waiting lists are open, including one for the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program and another for Public Housing. The Project-Based Voucher (PBV) program currently has no open lists in Ellsworth. Across the area, there are approximately 432 assisted housing units available.
Income eligibility is a key factor for these programs. For example, a family of four in Hancock County, which includes Ellsworth, is considered Very Low Income if their household income is $48,200 per year or less, based on FY2025 guidelines. This serves as an important benchmark for potential applicants.
To apply for housing assistance, it is recommended to directly contact the Ellsworth Housing Authority for the most current information on open waiting lists, eligibility criteria, and application procedures. The state housing agency, MaineHousing, also provides oversight and resources for affordable housing initiatives throughout Maine. Applicants should be prepared to provide necessary documentation and accurately complete all application forms.
Housing Authorities in Ellsworth
How to Apply for Section 8 in Ellsworth
To apply for housing assistance in Ellsworth, Maine, submit an application directly to Ellsworth Housing Authority, the housing authority serving this area. Right now, 3 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 $48,200/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 Ellsworth include Rural Development, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV). 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).
Ellsworth, Maine Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Ellsworth, Maine, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Hancock County, ME area. A family of four must earn less than $48,200 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $96,600.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $20,250 | $33,750 | $54,000 |
| 2 Persons | $23,150 | $38,600 | $61,700 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $43,400 | $69,400 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $48,200 | $77,100 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $52,100 | $83,300 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $55,950 | $89,450 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $59,800 | $95,650 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $63,650 | $101,800 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Ellsworth 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 Ellsworth and have active housing programs.