Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Pittsfield, Massachusetts
There are 3 open waiting lists in the Pittsfield area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 2 housing authorities serving Pittsfield, 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 Pittsfield, 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 Pittsfield, Massachusetts
Pittsfield, Massachusetts is served by 2 housing authorities offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 3 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Pittsfield area. There are also 70 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Pittsfield include Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV). Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: PBV (2 open), Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Berkshire County Regional Housing Authority opened its PBV waitlist .
About Housing in Pittsfield, Massachusetts
Seeking affordable housing in Pittsfield, Massachusetts involves navigating options provided by two key housing authorities: the Pittsfield Housing Authority and the Berkshire County Regional Housing Authority. These agencies manage various assistance programs designed to help individuals and families secure stable housing.
Currently, there are 3 open waiting lists for affordable housing programs in the Pittsfield area, while 2 lists are closed. Programs available include the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, Project-Based Voucher (PBV) program, and Public Housing. It's important to note that both PBV lists and one Public Housing list are presently open for applications, while all HCV lists are closed. There are approximately 754 assisted housing units available across the area. Eligibility for these programs often depends on income; for instance, the Very Low Income limit for a family of four in Berkshire County for FY2025 is $59,800 per year.
Applicants should directly contact the Pittsfield Housing Authority and the Berkshire County Regional Housing Authority to understand specific program availability, application procedures, and detailed eligibility criteria. The Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) oversees state-level housing initiatives. It is advisable to apply to all programs for which you may qualify to increase your chances of securing assistance.
How to Apply for Section 8 in Pittsfield
To apply for housing assistance in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, submit an application directly to one of the 2 housing authorities serving the Pittsfield area (listed above). 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 $59,800/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 Pittsfield 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).
Pittsfield, Massachusetts Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Berkshire County, MA (part) HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $59,800 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $108,500.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $25,150 | $41,850 | $67,000 |
| 2 Persons | $28,750 | $47,800 | $76,550 |
| 3 Persons | $32,350 | $53,850 | $86,100 |
| 4 Persons | $35,900 | $59,800 | $95,650 |
| 5 Persons | $38,800 | $64,600 | $103,350 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $69,400 | $111,000 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $74,150 | $118,650 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $78,950 | $126,300 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Pittsfield 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 Pittsfield and have active housing programs.