Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Paterson, New Jersey
All waiting lists in Paterson are currently closed. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Paterson, 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 Paterson, 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 Paterson, New Jersey
Paterson, New Jersey is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Currently, all waitlists in Paterson are closed. Openings can happen with as little as 48 hours notice, so monitoring is critical. There are also 186 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Paterson include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing.
Open Lists Nearby
While no waitlists are open in Paterson right now, there are 186 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 Paterson, New Jersey
For individuals and families seeking affordable housing assistance in Paterson, New Jersey, the primary resource is the Paterson Housing Authority. As of the latest update, 0 waiting lists are currently open for new applications, with 2 lists reported as closed. This includes programs such as the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, Project-Based Voucher (PBV) program, and Public Housing, all of which currently have closed waiting lists.
Approximately 4,397 assisted housing units exist in the Paterson area. Eligibility for many programs is based on income. For instance, a family of four in the Bergen-Passaic, NJ HUD Metro FMR Area, considered "Very Low Income," would have an annual income limit of $68,550 for FY2025. The New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA) also plays a role in state-level housing initiatives.
Those interested in affordable housing in Paterson should regularly check for updates directly from the Paterson Housing Authority. Program availability and waiting list openings can change, so staying informed is crucial for potential applicants.
Housing Authorities in Paterson
How to Apply for Section 8 in Paterson
To apply for housing assistance in Paterson, New Jersey, submit an application directly to Paterson Housing 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 $68,550/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 Paterson include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), 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).
Paterson, New Jersey Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Paterson, New Jersey, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Bergen-Passaic, NJ HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $68,550 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $137,100.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $28,850 | $48,000 | $72,950 |
| 2 Persons | $32,950 | $54,850 | $83,400 |
| 3 Persons | $37,050 | $61,700 | $93,800 |
| 4 Persons | $41,150 | $68,550 | $104,200 |
| 5 Persons | $44,450 | $74,050 | $112,550 |
| 6 Persons | $47,750 | $79,550 | $120,900 |
| 7 Persons | $51,050 | $85,050 | $129,250 |
| 8 Persons | $54,350 | $90,500 | $137,550 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Paterson 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 Paterson and have active housing programs.