Newark, NJ

Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Newark, New Jersey

There is 1 open waiting list in the Newark area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Newark, 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 Newark, 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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Agencies
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Open Now
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Closed

Affordable Housing in Newark, New Jersey

Newark, New Jersey 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 Newark area. There are also 181 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.

Housing programs available in Newark include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), RAD. Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: Public Housing (1 open).

Latest Opening

Newark Housing Authority opened its Public Housing waitlist .

About Housing in Newark, New Jersey

Newark, New Jersey is primarily served by the Newark Housing Authority. For individuals and families seeking affordable housing assistance in this area, it's important to be aware of the current waitlist status. Currently, one waiting list is open for applications, while three others are closed. The open waitlist specifically pertains to the Public Housing program.

Beyond Public Housing, the Newark Housing Authority also manages programs for Emergency Housing Vouchers, Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), and RAD (Rental Assistance Demonstration). However, the waitlists for these programs are presently closed. To be eligible for housing assistance, applicants must meet specific income requirements. For a family of four, the Very Low Income limit in the Newark, NJ HUD Metro FMR Area for FY2025 is $67,650 per year. There are approximately 14,652 assisted housing units across the area.

The New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA) also plays a role in state-level housing initiatives. When applying for any housing program, it is crucial to ensure all application materials are accurate and submitted promptly according to the housing authority's guidelines. Always verify the most current status of waitlists directly with the Newark Housing Authority, as availability can change.

How to Apply for Section 8 in Newark

To apply for housing assistance in Newark, New Jersey, submit an application directly to Newark Housing Authority, 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 $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 Newark include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Emergency Housing Vouchers, RAD. 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).

Newark, New Jersey Section 8 Income Limits

To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Newark, 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
Source: HUD FY 2025 Income Limits Area Median Income: $135,300 Effective April 1, 2025
How do income limits affect my eligibility?

Housing authorities in Newark 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 Newark?
Yes — there are currently 1 open waiting list in Newark, New Jersey. Click into any housing authority above marked "Open" for application details and official portal links.
Can I apply for Section 8 in Newark 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 Newark?
Wait times vary depending on demand, funding, and your priority status. National averages range from 6 months to 5+ years. Newark 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 New Jersey