Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Detroit, Michigan
There are 3 open waiting lists in the Detroit area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Detroit, 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 Detroit, 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 Detroit, Michigan
Detroit, Michigan is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 3 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Detroit area. There are also 24 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Detroit 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
Detroit Housing Commission opened its MOD Rehab waitlist .
About Housing in Detroit, Michigan
For those seeking affordable housing in Detroit, Michigan, the primary local agency to know is the Detroit Housing Commission. This authority oversees various housing assistance programs designed to help low-income individuals and families. Currently, the Detroit Housing Commission has 2 open waiting lists available for applications, while 1 list is closed. Programs offered include Project-Based Vouchers (PBV) and Public Housing, both with open waiting lists. The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, however, does not have an open waiting list at this time. There are approximately 10,893 assisted housing units available in the Detroit area.
To qualify for many of these programs, income limits apply. For instance, a family of four in the Detroit-Warren-Livonia, MI HUD Metro FMR Area with a Very Low Income must not exceed $50,500 per year, according to the FY2025 guidelines. Prospective applicants should regularly check the Detroit Housing Commission's official announcements for waiting list openings and specific eligibility criteria. It is also beneficial to be aware of the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), the state housing agency, which may offer additional resources or programs. Always prepare necessary documentation, such as proof of income and family size, when applying for housing assistance.
Housing Authorities in Detroit
How to Apply for Section 8 in Detroit
To apply for housing assistance in Detroit, Michigan, submit an application directly to Detroit Housing Commission, the housing authority serving this area. 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 $50,500/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 Detroit include MOD Rehab, Public Housing, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), 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).
Detroit, Michigan Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Detroit, Michigan, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Detroit-Warren-Livonia, MI HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $50,500 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $101,000.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $21,250 | $35,350 | $56,600 |
| 2 Persons | $24,250 | $40,400 | $64,650 |
| 3 Persons | $27,300 | $45,450 | $72,750 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $50,500 | $80,800 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $54,550 | $87,300 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $58,600 | $93,750 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $62,650 | $100,200 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $66,700 | $106,700 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Detroit 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 Detroit and have active housing programs.