Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Salem, New Hampshire
There are 2 open waiting lists in the Salem area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Salem, 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 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, New Hampshire
Salem, New Hampshire 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 359 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Salem include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV). Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: Public Housing (1 open), HCV (1 open).
Latest Opening
Housing Authority of the Town of Salem opened its HCV waitlist .
About Housing in Salem, New Hampshire
Salem, New Hampshire's affordable housing needs are primarily addressed by the Housing Authority of the Town of Salem. This authority currently manages two open waiting lists for housing assistance programs. Available programs include the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, which currently has an open waiting list, and Public Housing, which also has an open waiting list. While other programs like Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) programs, including specific properties like Downing Way, are available in the area, their waiting lists are currently closed.
Applicants seeking housing assistance in Salem should be aware of income limitations. For example, the Very Low Income limit for a family of four in the Lawrence, MA-NH HUD Metro FMR Area is $70,650 per year for Fiscal Year 2025. This benchmark helps determine eligibility for various programs. The New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority serves as the state's housing agency, overseeing many of these initiatives.
There are approximately 158 assisted housing units available in the Salem area. Individuals interested in applying for assistance through the Housing Authority of the Town of Salem should directly contact the authority for detailed information on eligibility, application procedures, and current waitlist status. It is advisable to regularly check for updates on waiting list openings.
How to Apply for Section 8 in Salem
To apply for housing assistance in Salem, New Hampshire, submit an application directly to Housing Authority of the Town 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 $70,650/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 Salem include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing, Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC), LIHTC (Low Income Housing Tax Credit), LIHTC, other, LIHTC (Downing Way). 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, New Hampshire Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Salem, New Hampshire, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Lawrence, MA-NH HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $70,650 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $141,300.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $29,700 | $49,500 | $72,950 |
| 2 Persons | $33,950 | $56,550 | $83,400 |
| 3 Persons | $38,200 | $63,600 | $93,800 |
| 4 Persons | $42,400 | $70,650 | $104,200 |
| 5 Persons | $45,800 | $76,350 | $112,550 |
| 6 Persons | $49,200 | $82,000 | $120,900 |
| 7 Persons | $52,600 | $87,650 | $129,250 |
| 8 Persons | $56,000 | $93,300 | $137,550 |
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.