Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Kearney, Nebraska
There is 1 open waiting list in the Kearney area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Kearney, Nebraska 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 Kearney, 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 Kearney, Nebraska
Kearney, Nebraska is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 1 waiting list is accepting applications in the Kearney area. There are also 17 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Kearney include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV). Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Kearney Housing Agency opened its Public Housing waitlist .
About Housing in Kearney, Nebraska
Affordable housing assistance in Kearney, Nebraska is primarily administered by the Kearney Housing Agency. This agency currently has 2 waiting lists open for individuals and families seeking support. Programs available include the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, with 1 open list, and the Public Housing program, also with 1 open list. There are approximately 338 assisted housing units available in the area to serve eligible residents.
To qualify for these programs, applicants must meet specific income limits. For instance, a family of four considered Very Low Income in Buffalo County (FY2025) must have an annual income no higher than $52,400. Income limits are subject to change and vary depending on household size.
For detailed information on eligibility criteria, program specifics, and current application procedures, individuals should contact the Kearney Housing Agency directly. The Nebraska Investment Finance Authority (NIFA) is the state's housing finance agency, supporting various housing initiatives across Nebraska.
Housing Authorities in Kearney
How to Apply for Section 8 in Kearney
To apply for housing assistance in Kearney, Nebraska, submit an application directly to Kearney Housing Agency, the housing authority serving this area. Right now, 1 waiting list is 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 $52,400/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 Kearney include 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).
Kearney, Nebraska Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Kearney, Nebraska, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Buffalo County, NE area. A family of four must earn less than $52,400 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $104,800.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $22,050 | $36,700 | $58,700 |
| 2 Persons | $25,200 | $41,950 | $67,100 |
| 3 Persons | $28,350 | $47,200 | $75,500 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $52,400 | $83,850 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $56,600 | $90,600 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $60,800 | $97,300 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $65,000 | $104,000 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $69,200 | $110,700 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Kearney 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 Kearney and have active housing programs.