Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Manchester, New Hampshire
All waiting lists in Manchester are currently closed. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Manchester, New Hampshire 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 Manchester, 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 Manchester, New Hampshire
Manchester, New Hampshire is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Currently, all waitlists in Manchester are closed. Openings can happen with as little as 48 hours notice, so monitoring is critical. There are also 306 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Manchester include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing.
Open Lists Nearby
While no waitlists are open in Manchester right now, there are 306 open lists within 50 miles. Most housing authorities accept applications from non-residents, so applying in neighboring cities is a practical strategy. Scroll down to "Nearby Cities" below for options.
About Housing in Manchester, New Hampshire
Manchester, New Hampshire, is primarily served by the Manchester Housing & Redevelopment Authority (MHRA), which administers key affordable housing programs. These include the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV), Public Housing, and Single Room Occupancy (SRO) initiatives. Currently, there are no waiting lists open for these programs, with three lists presently closed. Individuals seeking assistance should frequently check the MHRA's official communications for updates on when applications might reopen, as statuses can change.
For eligibility context, a family of four seeking Very Low Income housing assistance in the Hillsborough County area for FY2025 typically faces an income limit of $60,650 per year. The Manchester area has approximately 3,345 assisted housing units, reflecting ongoing demand. The New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority also serves as the state's housing agency, providing broader resources and information on housing programs throughout New Hampshire.
Applicants are encouraged to stay informed about potential changes to waitlist statuses by periodically reviewing the Manchester Housing & Redevelopment Authority's updates. Preparing necessary documentation, such as income verification and identification, in advance can help streamline the application process once lists become available.
Housing Authorities in Manchester
How to Apply for Section 8 in Manchester
To apply for housing assistance in Manchester, New Hampshire, submit an application directly to Manchester Housing & Redevelopment Authority, the housing authority serving this area. All waitlists are currently closed, but openings happen with as little as 48 hours 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 $60,650/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 Manchester include SRO, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing. 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).
Manchester, New Hampshire Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Manchester, New Hampshire, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Hillsborough County, NH (part) HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $60,650 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $121,300.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $25,500 | $42,500 | $67,950 |
| 2 Persons | $29,150 | $48,550 | $77,650 |
| 3 Persons | $32,800 | $54,600 | $87,350 |
| 4 Persons | $36,400 | $60,650 | $97,050 |
| 5 Persons | $39,350 | $65,550 | $104,850 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $70,400 | $112,600 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $75,250 | $120,350 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $80,100 | $128,150 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Manchester 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 Manchester and have active housing programs.