Lincoln, NE

Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Lincoln, Nebraska

There are 2 open waiting lists in the Lincoln area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Lincoln, 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 Lincoln, 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.

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Affordable Housing in Lincoln, Nebraska

Lincoln, Nebraska 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 Lincoln area. There are also 38 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.

Housing programs available in Lincoln include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV). Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: HCV (1 open), Public Housing (1 open).

Latest Opening

Lincoln Housing Authority opened its HCV waitlist .

About Housing in Lincoln, Nebraska

Lincoln, Nebraska offers several avenues for affordable housing assistance for its residents. The primary provider of housing assistance in the area is the Lincoln Housing Authority, which administers various programs to help individuals and families secure stable housing. Across the Lincoln area, there are approximately 3,588 assisted housing units available.

Currently, the Lincoln Housing Authority has two waiting lists open for prospective applicants, with no lists presently closed. These open opportunities include programs such as the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, for which one list is open, and Public Housing, which also has one open list. While the Project-Based Voucher (PBV) program is offered, it does not currently have any open waiting lists. It is important for applicants to regularly check the Lincoln Housing Authority for updates on list statuses and application periods.

Eligibility for these housing assistance programs is typically based on income and family size. For example, the Very Low Income limit for a family of four in the Lincoln, NE HUD Metro FMR Area for FY2025 is $53,750 per year. Understanding these income thresholds is a crucial first step for potential applicants. The Nebraska Investment Finance Authority (NIFA) serves as the state housing agency, supporting broader affordable housing initiatives across Nebraska. Individuals seeking assistance should contact the Lincoln Housing Authority directly to learn more about specific program requirements and application procedures.

How to Apply for Section 8 in Lincoln

To apply for housing assistance in Lincoln, Nebraska, submit an application directly to Lincoln Housing Authority, 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 $53,750/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 Lincoln include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV). 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).

Lincoln, Nebraska Section 8 Income Limits

To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Lincoln, Nebraska, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Lincoln, NE HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $53,750 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $107,500.

Household Size Extremely Low
30% AMI
Very Low
50% AMI
Low Income
80% AMI
1 Person $22,600 $37,650 $60,200
2 Persons $25,800 $43,000 $68,800
3 Persons $29,050 $48,400 $77,400
4 Persons $32,250 $53,750 $86,000
5 Persons $37,650 $58,050 $92,900
6 Persons $43,150 $62,350 $99,800
7 Persons $48,650 $66,650 $106,650
8 Persons $54,150 $70,950 $113,550
Source: HUD FY 2025 Income Limits Area Median Income: $107,500 Effective April 1, 2025
How do income limits affect my eligibility?

Housing authorities in Lincoln 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there open Section 8 waiting lists in Lincoln?
Yes — there are currently 2 open waiting lists in Lincoln, Nebraska. Click into any housing authority above marked "Open" for application details and official portal links.
Can I apply for Section 8 in Lincoln if I don't live there?
In most cases, yes. While some PHAs give preference to local residents, there is no federal rule requiring you to live in a city to apply for its waiting list. Many applicants apply to housing authorities in multiple cities and states simultaneously to increase their chances of receiving assistance.
How long is the wait for Section 8 in Lincoln?
Wait times vary depending on demand, funding, and your priority status. National averages range from 6 months to 5+ years. Lincoln wait times depend on the specific housing authority and program type. Contact the PHA directly for current estimates, and consider applying to multiple PHAs to improve your chances.
All housing authorities in Nebraska