Andover, MA

Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Andover, Massachusetts

There are 2 open waiting lists in the Andover area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Andover, Massachusetts 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 Andover, 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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Affordable Housing in Andover, Massachusetts

Andover, Massachusetts is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 2 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Andover area. There are also 379 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.

Housing programs available in Andover 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

Andover Housing Authority opened its HCV waitlist on Jan 6, 2003.

About Housing in Andover, Massachusetts

Individuals and families seeking affordable housing in Andover, Massachusetts, can find assistance through the Andover Housing Authority. This local agency manages various housing programs within the town, which collectively provide approximately 131 assisted housing units. Understanding the application process and specific program requirements is essential for those looking to secure stable housing.

Currently, the Andover Housing Authority has two waitlists open for applications: the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program and the Public Housing program. Other programs, including Elderly/Handicapped Housing, Emergency Housing, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), and Special Needs Housing, currently have closed waitlists. Income eligibility is a key factor for all programs; for instance, a very low-income family of four in the Lawrence, MA-NH HUD Metro FMR Area must have an annual income no higher than $70,650 as of FY2025. Applicants should contact the Andover Housing Authority directly for specific income guidelines and to monitor when waitlists for other programs may reopen. The Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) oversees state housing initiatives and can offer broader resources.

How to Apply for Section 8 in Andover

To apply for housing assistance in Andover, Massachusetts, submit an application directly to Andover Housing Authority, the housing authority serving this area. Right now, 2 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 $70,650/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 Andover include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Special Needs Housing, Emergency Housing, Elderly/Handicapped 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).

Andover, Massachusetts Section 8 Income Limits

To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Andover, Massachusetts, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Lawrence, MA-NH HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $70,650 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $141,300.

Household Size Extremely Low
30% AMI
Very Low
50% AMI
Low Income
80% AMI
1 Person $29,700 $49,500 $72,950
2 Persons $33,950 $56,550 $83,400
3 Persons $38,200 $63,600 $93,800
4 Persons $42,400 $70,650 $104,200
5 Persons $45,800 $76,350 $112,550
6 Persons $49,200 $82,000 $120,900
7 Persons $52,600 $87,650 $129,250
8 Persons $56,000 $93,300 $137,550
Source: HUD FY 2025 Income Limits Area Median Income: $141,300 Effective April 1, 2025
How do income limits affect my eligibility?

Housing authorities in Andover 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 Andover?
Yes — there are currently 2 open waiting lists in Andover, Massachusetts. Click into any housing authority above marked "Open" for application details and official portal links.
Can I apply for Section 8 in Andover 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 Andover?
Wait times vary depending on demand, funding, and your priority status. National averages range from 6 months to 5+ years. Andover 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 Massachusetts