Methuen, MA

Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Methuen, Massachusetts

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

Methuen, 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 Methuen area. There are also 370 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.

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

Latest Opening

Methuen Housing Authority opened its MRVP waitlist .

About Housing in Methuen, Massachusetts

Affordable housing opportunities in Methuen, Massachusetts are primarily managed by the Methuen Housing Authority. This authority oversees various programs designed to assist individuals and families with housing needs. Currently, two waiting lists are open, with one additional list currently closed. Programs available include Public Housing and the Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program (MRVP), which currently has an open waiting list. The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, for which there is one list, is currently not accepting applications.

For those considering applying, it is important to understand eligibility criteria. For example, a family of four must meet the Very Low Income limit of $70,650 per year for the Lawrence, MA-NH HUD Metro FMR Area, according to FY2025 guidelines. Methuen offers approximately 611 assisted housing units across its programs. Applicants are encouraged to contact the Methuen Housing Authority directly to inquire about specific program details, application requirements, and the current status of waiting lists for Public Housing and MRVP.

The Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) oversees housing programs statewide. Prospective applicants should gather all necessary documentation and follow application instructions carefully. Direct communication with the Methuen Housing Authority is the most effective way to learn about current opportunities and how to apply for available assistance programs in the area.

How to Apply for Section 8 in Methuen

To apply for housing assistance in Methuen, Massachusetts, submit an application directly to Methuen 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 Methuen include Public Housing, MRVP, 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).

Methuen, Massachusetts Section 8 Income Limits

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