Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Kansas City, Missouri
There are 2 open waiting lists in the Kansas City area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Kansas City, Missouri 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 Kansas City, 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 Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City, Missouri 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 Kansas City area. There are also 28 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Kansas City 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
Housing Authority of Kansas City opened its Public Housing waitlist .
About Housing in Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City, Missouri, offers various affordable housing options, primarily managed by the Housing Authority of Kansas City (HAKC). This agency serves as the main point of contact for local housing assistance, working alongside the Missouri Housing Development Commission (MHDC) at the state level. The area currently has approximately 10,697 assisted housing units available to eligible families and individuals.
For those seeking housing assistance, the Housing Authority of Kansas City currently has two waiting lists open. These include the waiting list for Public Housing, which provides affordable rental units directly managed by HAKC, and the waiting list for Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), which attach rental assistance to specific housing developments. It is important to note that the waiting list for the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program is currently closed.
Eligibility for these programs depends on several factors, including household income. For instance, a family of four applying for very low-income assistance in the Kansas City, MO-KS HUD Metro FMR Area must have an annual income no higher than $55,700, based on FY2025 limits. Prospective applicants are encouraged to apply promptly for open lists and verify specific program requirements with the Housing Authority of Kansas City.
Housing Authorities in Kansas City
How to Apply for Section 8 in Kansas City
To apply for housing assistance in Kansas City, Missouri, submit an application directly to Housing Authority of Kansas City, 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 $55,700/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 Kansas City include 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).
Kansas City, Missouri Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Kansas City, Missouri, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Kansas City, MO-KS HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $55,700 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $111,400.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $23,400 | $39,000 | $62,400 |
| 2 Persons | $26,750 | $44,600 | $71,300 |
| 3 Persons | $30,100 | $50,150 | $80,200 |
| 4 Persons | $33,400 | $55,700 | $89,100 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $60,200 | $96,250 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $64,650 | $103,400 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $69,100 | $110,500 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $73,550 | $117,650 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Kansas City 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 Kansas City and have active housing programs.