Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Grand Rapids, Michigan
There are 2 open waiting lists in the Grand Rapids area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Grand 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 Grand 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 Grand Rapids, Michigan
Grand Rapids, Michigan 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 Grand Rapids area. There are also 19 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Grand 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
Grand Rapids Housing Commission opened its Public Housing waitlist .
About Housing in Grand Rapids, Michigan
For those seeking affordable housing in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the primary agency serving the area is the Grand Rapids Housing Commission (GRHC). This commission manages various programs designed to provide housing assistance. Overall, there are approximately 3,998 assisted housing units available in the Grand Rapids area.
Currently, the Grand Rapids Housing Commission has two waiting lists open and one closed. The programs available through GRHC include the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV), Project-Based Voucher (PBV), and Public Housing. Specifically, one HCV list is currently closed, while one PBV list and one Public Housing list are open for applications. The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) also supports affordable housing initiatives across the state.
To qualify for these programs, applicants must meet specific income limits. For the Grand Rapids-Wyoming, MI HUD Metro FMR Area, a family of four is considered Very Low Income with an annual income of $53,200 or less for FY2025. It is essential for prospective applicants to regularly check the Grand Rapids Housing Commission's official announcements for the most current waiting list statuses and application instructions. Applying promptly when lists open and ensuring all required documentation is accurate and complete are key steps in the application process.
Housing Authorities in Grand Rapids
How to Apply for Section 8 in Grand Rapids
To apply for housing assistance in Grand Rapids, Michigan, submit an application directly to Grand Rapids Housing Commission, 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 $53,200/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 Grand Rapids 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).
Grand Rapids, Michigan Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Grand Rapids, Michigan, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Grand Rapids-Wyoming, MI HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $53,200 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $106,400.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $22,350 | $37,250 | $59,600 |
| 2 Persons | $25,550 | $42,600 | $68,100 |
| 3 Persons | $28,750 | $47,900 | $76,600 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $53,200 | $85,100 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $57,500 | $91,950 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $61,750 | $98,750 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $66,000 | $105,550 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $70,250 | $112,350 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Grand 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 Grand Rapids and have active housing programs.