Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Salem, Missouri
There are 2 open waiting lists in the Salem area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Salem, 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 Salem, 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 Salem, Missouri
Salem, 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 Salem area. There are also 10 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Salem 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 the City of Salem opened its PBV waitlist on Feb 23, 2026.
About Housing in Salem, Missouri
Salem, Missouri, is served by the Housing Authority of the City of Salem, the primary local agency managing affordable housing programs in the area. Currently, two waiting lists are open for housing assistance, while one is closed. Programs available through this authority include Housing Choice Voucher (HCV), Project-Based Voucher (PBV), and Public Housing. As of now, the waiting lists for Project-Based Voucher (PBV) and Public Housing programs are open for applications, though the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) list is currently closed.
Across Salem, there are approximately 90 assisted housing units available to help low-income individuals and families find stable housing. Eligibility for these programs often depends on meeting specific income guidelines. For instance, a family of four in Dent County, Missouri, would need to have a combined annual income at or below $38,550 to qualify as Very Low Income for the Fiscal Year 2025. This benchmark helps determine eligibility for various federal and state-funded programs. The Missouri Housing Development Commission (MHDC) also supports affordable housing initiatives at the state level.
Individuals interested in applying for assistance should contact the Housing Authority of the City of Salem directly to confirm the current status of all waiting lists and understand specific application requirements. Providing accurate and complete documentation is a key step in the application process.
Housing Authorities in Salem
How to Apply for Section 8 in Salem
To apply for housing assistance in Salem, Missouri, submit an application directly to Housing Authority of the City of Salem, 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 $38,550/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 Salem 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).
Salem, Missouri Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Salem, Missouri, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Dent County, MO area. A family of four must earn less than $38,550 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $68,200.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $16,250 | $27,000 | $43,200 |
| 2 Persons | $21,150 | $30,850 | $49,400 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $34,700 | $55,550 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $38,550 | $61,700 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $41,650 | $66,650 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $44,700 | $71,600 |
| 7 Persons | $47,800 | $47,800 | $76,550 |
| 8 Persons | $50,900 | $50,900 | $81,450 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Salem 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 Salem and have active housing programs.