Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Cortland, New York
There is 1 open waiting list in the Cortland area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Cortland, New York 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 Cortland, 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 Cortland, New York
Cortland, New York 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 Cortland area. There are also 24 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Cortland include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV). Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Cortland Housing Authority opened its Public Housing waitlist .
About Housing in Cortland, New York
For individuals and families seeking affordable housing assistance in Cortland, New York, the primary provider is the Cortland Housing Authority. This authority manages approximately 686 assisted housing units within the area. Currently, those interested in assistance should note that the waitlist for Public Housing programs is open, providing an opportunity for new applications. However, the waitlist for the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program is presently closed to new applicants.
Eligibility for these programs, including Public Housing, depends on several factors, primarily income. For instance, a family of four must generally have a gross annual income at or below $60,150 to qualify as Very Low Income in the Ithaca, NY MSA area, which impacts Cortland. This income limit is for Fiscal Year 2025. Applicants are encouraged to contact the Cortland Housing Authority directly for precise eligibility criteria, application instructions, and to learn when the HCV waitlist might reopen. New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) also serves as a statewide resource for housing initiatives and information.
Housing Authorities in Cortland
How to Apply for Section 8 in Cortland
To apply for housing assistance in Cortland, New York, submit an application directly to Cortland 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 $60,150/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 Cortland include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV). 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).
Cortland, New York Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Cortland, New York, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Ithaca, NY MSA area. A family of four must earn less than $60,150 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $122,100.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $25,300 | $42,150 | $67,400 |
| 2 Persons | $28,900 | $48,150 | $77,000 |
| 3 Persons | $32,500 | $54,150 | $86,650 |
| 4 Persons | $36,100 | $60,150 | $96,250 |
| 5 Persons | $39,000 | $65,000 | $103,950 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $69,800 | $111,650 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $74,600 | $119,350 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $79,400 | $127,050 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Cortland 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 Cortland and have active housing programs.