Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Wakefield, Massachusetts
There is 1 open waiting list in the Wakefield area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Wakefield, 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 Wakefield, 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 Wakefield, Massachusetts
Wakefield, Massachusetts is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 1 waiting list is accepting applications in the Wakefield area. There are also 410 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Wakefield include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV). Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Wakefield Housing Authority opened its Public Housing waitlist .
About Housing in Wakefield, Massachusetts
Affordable housing opportunities in Wakefield, Massachusetts are primarily managed by the Wakefield Housing Authority. This authority oversees programs designed to assist low-income individuals and families. Currently, for the Wakefield Housing Authority, one waiting list is open specifically for Public Housing programs. The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program's waiting list is currently closed.
Across the area, there are approximately 418 assisted housing units available. Eligibility for these programs typically depends on household income. For a family of four, the Very Low Income limit for the Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH HUD Metro FMR Area in FY2025 is $82,700 per year. The Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) provides state-level oversight for these initiatives.
If you are seeking housing assistance in Wakefield, it is advisable to contact the Wakefield Housing Authority directly for the most current information on open waiting lists and application procedures. Regularly checking for updates is recommended, especially for programs with closed lists, as availability can change.
Housing Authorities in Wakefield
How to Apply for Section 8 in Wakefield
To apply for housing assistance in Wakefield, Massachusetts, submit an application directly to Wakefield Housing Authority, the housing authority serving this area. Right now, 1 waiting list is 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 Wakefield include 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).
Wakefield, Massachusetts Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Wakefield, 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 Wakefield 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 Wakefield and have active housing programs.