Malden, MA

Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Malden, Massachusetts

There are 3 open waiting lists in the Malden area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Malden, 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 Malden, 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 Malden, Massachusetts

Malden, Massachusetts 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 Malden area. There are also 420 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.

Housing programs available in Malden include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing. Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: HCV (1 open), PBV (1 open), Public Housing (1 open).

Latest Opening

Malden Housing Authority opened its HCV waitlist .

About Housing in Malden, Massachusetts

Malden, Massachusetts provides a range of affordable housing opportunities for eligible residents. The primary local agency serving the city is the Malden Housing Authority. There are approximately 2,178 assisted housing units available in the area, contributing to the community's diverse housing landscape.

Currently, the Malden Housing Authority has 3 waiting lists open for individuals and families seeking assistance. These lists include programs such as the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, Project-Based Voucher (PBV) assistance, and Public Housing options. There are no closed waiting lists at this time. These programs are overseen by the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), the state housing agency.

Understanding income eligibility is crucial. For example, a family of four applying for Very Low Income housing in the Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH HUD Metro FMR Area for FY2025 would need to have an income at or below $82,700 per year. It is important for all prospective applicants to verify the specific income limits for their household size, as these can vary by program and are subject to annual adjustments. Keeping your contact information updated with the housing authority after applying is also a key step.

How to Apply for Section 8 in Malden

To apply for housing assistance in Malden, Massachusetts, submit an application directly to Malden 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 $82,700/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 Malden include Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV). 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).

Malden, Massachusetts Section 8 Income Limits

To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Malden, Massachusetts, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $82,700 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $160,900.

Household Size Extremely Low
30% AMI
Very Low
50% AMI
Low Income
80% AMI
1 Person $34,750 $57,900 $92,650
2 Persons $39,700 $66,200 $105,850
3 Persons $44,650 $74,450 $119,100
4 Persons $49,600 $82,700 $132,300
5 Persons $53,600 $89,350 $142,900
6 Persons $57,550 $95,950 $153,500
7 Persons $61,550 $102,550 $164,100
8 Persons $65,500 $109,200 $174,650
Source: HUD FY 2025 Income Limits Area Median Income: $160,900 Effective April 1, 2025
How do income limits affect my eligibility?

Housing authorities in Malden 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 Malden?
Yes — there are currently 3 open waiting lists in Malden, Massachusetts. Click into any housing authority above marked "Open" for application details and official portal links.
Can I apply for Section 8 in Malden 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 Malden?
Wait times vary depending on demand, funding, and your priority status. National averages range from 6 months to 5+ years. Malden 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