Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Watertown, Massachusetts
There are 2 open waiting lists in the Watertown area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Watertown, 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 Watertown, 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 Watertown, Massachusetts
Watertown, 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 Watertown area. There are also 434 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Watertown include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), VASH. Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: HCV (1 open), Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Watertown Housing Authority opened its HCV waitlist on Jan 6, 2003.
About Housing in Watertown, Massachusetts
Watertown, Massachusetts provides approximately 220 assisted housing units. The primary agency serving the area is the Watertown Housing Authority. Those seeking housing assistance in Watertown should direct their applications and inquiries to this authority, as they manage various programs designed to support residents with affordable housing options.
Currently, the Watertown Housing Authority has two waiting lists open and one closed. Available programs include Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) and Public Housing, both of which have open waiting lists. Programs such as Project-Based Voucher (PBV) and VASH are also offered but do not currently have open waiting lists. It is important for applicants to regularly check the status of these lists as availability can change.
Eligibility for affordable housing programs in Watertown is generally based on income and household size. For example, a Very Low Income limit for a family of four in the Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH HUD Metro FMR Area (FY2025) is $82,700 per year. These programs are overseen by the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). Prospective applicants should ensure all information provided is accurate and complete, and they are encouraged to apply to all open lists for which they may qualify.
Housing Authorities in Watertown
How to Apply for Section 8 in Watertown
To apply for housing assistance in Watertown, Massachusetts, submit an application directly to Watertown 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 $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 Watertown include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), VASH. 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).
Watertown, Massachusetts Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Watertown, 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 Watertown 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 Watertown and have active housing programs.