Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in North Reading, Massachusetts
All waiting lists in North Reading are currently closed. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving North Reading, 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 North Reading, 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 North Reading, Massachusetts
North Reading, Massachusetts is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Currently, all waitlists in North Reading are closed. Openings can happen with as little as 48 hours notice, so monitoring is critical. There are also 406 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in North Reading include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing.
Open Lists Nearby
While no waitlists are open in North Reading right now, there are 406 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 North Reading, Massachusetts
Individuals seeking affordable housing in North Reading, Massachusetts, are primarily served by the North Reading Housing Authority. The town currently has approximately 25 assisted housing units. As of now, all three waiting lists administered by the North Reading Housing Authority are closed to new applications. This includes programs for the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV), Project-Based Voucher (PBV), and Public Housing.
While the specific lists for HCV, PBV, and Public Housing are closed, it is advisable to periodically check for updates as housing availability can change. Eligibility for these programs depends on various factors, including income. For example, a family of four seeking Very Low Income housing in the North Reading area (part of the Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH HUD Metro FMR Area) would have an income limit of approximately $82,700 per year for FY2025. Income limits vary by family size and specific program. The Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) oversees state-level housing initiatives and resources, which may provide additional guidance.
Housing Authorities in North Reading
How to Apply for Section 8 in North Reading
To apply for housing assistance in North Reading, Massachusetts, submit an application directly to North Reading 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 $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 North Reading 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).
North Reading, Massachusetts Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in North Reading, 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 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in North Reading 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 North Reading and have active housing programs.