Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Gardner, Massachusetts
All waiting lists in Gardner are currently closed. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Gardner, 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 Gardner, 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 Gardner, Massachusetts
Gardner, Massachusetts is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Currently, all waitlists in Gardner are closed. Openings can happen with as little as 48 hours notice, so monitoring is critical. There are also 303 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Gardner include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing.
Open Lists Nearby
While no waitlists are open in Gardner right now, there are 303 open lists within 50 miles. Most housing authorities accept applications from non-residents, so applying in neighboring cities is a practical strategy. Scroll down to "Nearby Cities" below for options.
About Housing in Gardner, Massachusetts
Gardner, Massachusetts provides affordable housing options primarily through the Gardner Housing Authority. This authority manages programs such as Congregate Elderly Housing, Housing Choice Voucher (HCV), Public Housing, State-Aided Elderly/Handicapped, and State-Aided Family housing. As of now, all listed housing waitlists in Gardner are closed, with 0 open and 4 closed, meaning new applications are not being accepted. The area has approximately 108 assisted housing units.
Income eligibility is a significant factor for individuals and families seeking housing assistance. For example, the Very Low Income limit for a family of four in the Worcester, MA HUD Metro FMR Area for FY2025 is $62,350 annually. These income limits can vary based on household size and specific program requirements, and are subject to change. The Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) oversees state-wide housing initiatives.
To learn more about affordable housing opportunities in Gardner, it is recommended to contact the Gardner Housing Authority directly. They can provide the most current information regarding when waitlists might reopen, specific program details, and detailed eligibility criteria. Staying informed about potential openings is key for applicants.
How to Apply for Section 8 in Gardner
To apply for housing assistance in Gardner, Massachusetts, submit an application directly to Gardner Housing Authority, the housing authority serving this area. All waitlists are currently closed, but openings happen with as little as 48 hours 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 $62,350/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 Gardner include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), State-Aided Family, State-Aided Elderly/Handicapped, Congregate Elderly Housing. 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).
Gardner, Massachusetts Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Gardner, Massachusetts, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Worcester, MA HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $62,350 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $122,200.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $26,200 | $43,650 | $69,850 |
| 2 Persons | $29,950 | $49,900 | $79,800 |
| 3 Persons | $33,700 | $56,150 | $89,800 |
| 4 Persons | $37,400 | $62,350 | $99,750 |
| 5 Persons | $40,400 | $67,350 | $107,750 |
| 6 Persons | $43,400 | $72,350 | $115,750 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $77,350 | $123,700 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $82,350 | $131,700 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Gardner 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 Gardner and have active housing programs.