Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Big Rapids, Michigan
There are 4 open waiting lists in the Big Rapids area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Big Rapids, Michigan 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 Big Rapids, 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 Big Rapids, Michigan
Big Rapids, Michigan is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 4 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Big Rapids area. There are also 14 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Big Rapids include Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV). Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: PBV (1 open), Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Big Rapids Housing Commission opened its Nisbett-Fairman Residences waitlist .
About Housing in Big Rapids, Michigan
Individuals seeking affordable housing assistance in Big Rapids, Michigan can find support through various programs. The Big Rapids Housing Commission (BRHC) is the primary housing authority serving the area. There are approximately 287 assisted housing units available. Currently, two waiting lists are open for new applications through the BRHC, while others are closed.
The Big Rapids Housing Commission manages several affordable housing programs. These include the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, Meadow Park Apartments, Nisbett-Fairman Residences, the Project-Based Voucher (PBV) program, and Public Housing. As of now, the waiting lists for the Project-Based Voucher (PBV) program and Public Housing are open. Waiting lists for the HCV program, Meadow Park Apartments, and Nisbett-Fairman Residences are currently closed. Eligibility for these programs typically depends on household income. For example, the Very Low Income limit for a family of four in Mecosta County for Fiscal Year 2025 is $40,950 per year.
Those interested in applying for housing assistance in Big Rapids should contact the Big Rapids Housing Commission directly for current application procedures, specific eligibility requirements, and to confirm the status of waiting lists. The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) also serves as the state's housing agency, providing additional resources and information across Michigan.
How to Apply for Section 8 in Big Rapids
To apply for housing assistance in Big Rapids, Michigan, submit an application directly to Big Rapids Housing Commission, the housing authority serving this area. Right now, 4 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 $40,950/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 Big Rapids include Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Meadow Park Apartments, Nisbett-Fairman Residences, 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).
Big Rapids, Michigan Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Big Rapids, Michigan, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Mecosta County, MI area. A family of four must earn less than $40,950 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $77,600.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $17,200 | $28,700 | $45,850 |
| 2 Persons | $21,150 | $32,800 | $52,400 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $36,900 | $58,950 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $40,950 | $65,500 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $44,250 | $70,750 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $47,550 | $76,000 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $50,800 | $81,250 |
| 8 Persons | $54,100 | $54,100 | $86,500 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Big Rapids 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 Big Rapids and have active housing programs.