Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Elizabeth, New Jersey
All waiting lists in Elizabeth are currently closed. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 2 housing authorities serving Elizabeth, New Jersey 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 Elizabeth, 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 Elizabeth, New Jersey
Elizabeth, New Jersey is served by 2 housing authorities offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Currently, all waitlists in Elizabeth are closed. Openings can happen with as little as 48 hours notice, so monitoring is critical. There are also 182 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Elizabeth include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Mainstream, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing, RAD.
Open Lists Nearby
While no waitlists are open in Elizabeth right now, there are 182 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 Elizabeth, New Jersey
Individuals seeking affordable housing options in Elizabeth, New Jersey are primarily served by two housing authorities: the Elizabeth Housing Authority and the Union County Housing Authority. These agencies administer various programs designed to assist low-income residents. Currently, a total of 12 housing assistance waiting lists are closed, and there are no open waiting lists for new applications in Elizabeth.
Available programs include Housing Choice Voucher (HCV), Mainstream, Project-Based Voucher (PBV), Public Housing, Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD), as well as specific initiatives like Other, Other (Disabled/Specific Needs Housing), and Shelter Plus Care. All listed programs currently have closed waiting lists. The Elizabeth area has approximately 3,284 assisted housing units. For a family of four, the Very Low Income limit is set at $67,650 per year, based on the FY2025 Newark, NJ HUD Metro FMR Area.
Since no waiting lists are presently accepting new applicants, prospective residents should regularly check with both the Elizabeth Housing Authority and the Union County Housing Authority for any announcements regarding future openings. It is important to be prepared with all necessary documentation once a list does open. Additionally, the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA) serves as the state housing agency and can provide further resources and information regarding affordable housing opportunities statewide.
Housing Authorities in Elizabeth
How to Apply for Section 8 in Elizabeth
To apply for housing assistance in Elizabeth, New Jersey, submit an application directly to one of the 2 housing authorities serving the Elizabeth area (listed above). 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 $67,650/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 Elizabeth include Mainstream, Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), RAD, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Other, Other (Disabled/Specific Needs Housing), Shelter Plus Care. 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).
Elizabeth, New Jersey Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Elizabeth, New Jersey, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Newark, NJ HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $67,650 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $135,300.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $28,450 | $47,400 | $72,950 |
| 2 Persons | $32,500 | $54,150 | $83,400 |
| 3 Persons | $36,550 | $60,900 | $93,800 |
| 4 Persons | $40,600 | $67,650 | $104,200 |
| 5 Persons | $43,850 | $73,100 | $112,550 |
| 6 Persons | $47,100 | $78,500 | $120,900 |
| 7 Persons | $50,350 | $83,900 | $129,250 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $89,300 | $137,550 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Elizabeth 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 Elizabeth and have active housing programs.