South Portland, ME

Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in South Portland, Maine

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

South Portland, Maine 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 South Portland area. There are also 41 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.

Housing programs available in South Portland include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing, RAD.

Latest Opening

South Portland Housing Authority opened its Other waitlist .

About Housing in South Portland, Maine

In South Portland, Maine, affordable housing assistance is primarily administered by the South Portland Housing Authority, which serves approximately 740 assisted housing units in the area. For individuals and families seeking support, understanding the application process and current waitlist status is important. Currently, one waiting list is open for programs, while four others are closed. MaineHousing serves as the state's housing agency, overseeing broader housing initiatives.

The South Portland Housing Authority offers various programs, including Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing, and RAD (Rental Assistance Demonstration) programs. While lists for HCV, PBV, Public Housing, and RAD programs are currently closed, the "Other" program type has an open waiting list. Eligibility for these programs depends on income levels, which vary by household size and specific program. For example, a family of four in the Portland, ME HUD Metro FMR Area would qualify as Very Low Income for FY2025 with an annual income at or below $64,900.

Prospective applicants should contact the South Portland Housing Authority directly to inquire about the specific "Other" program with an open waitlist. It is advisable to regularly check for updates, as waitlist statuses can change. Direct communication with the housing authority will provide the most current information regarding eligibility, application procedures, and any new openings.

How to Apply for Section 8 in South Portland

To apply for housing assistance in South Portland, Maine, submit an application directly to South Portland 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 $64,900/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 South Portland include Other, RAD, 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).

South Portland, Maine Section 8 Income Limits

To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in South Portland, Maine, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Portland, ME HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $64,900 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $129,800.

Household Size Extremely Low
30% AMI
Very Low
50% AMI
Low Income
80% AMI
1 Person $27,300 $45,450 $72,700
2 Persons $31,200 $51,950 $83,100
3 Persons $35,100 $58,450 $93,500
4 Persons $38,950 $64,900 $103,850
5 Persons $42,100 $70,100 $112,200
6 Persons $45,200 $75,300 $120,500
7 Persons $48,650 $80,500 $128,800
8 Persons $54,150 $85,700 $137,100
Source: HUD FY 2025 Income Limits Area Median Income: $129,800 Effective April 1, 2025
How do income limits affect my eligibility?

Housing authorities in South Portland 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 South Portland?
Yes — there are currently 1 open waiting list in South Portland, Maine. Click into any housing authority above marked "Open" for application details and official portal links.
Can I apply for Section 8 in South Portland 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 South Portland?
Wait times vary depending on demand, funding, and your priority status. National averages range from 6 months to 5+ years. South Portland 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 Maine