Hempstead, NY

Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Hempstead, New York

There are 9 open waiting lists in the Hempstead area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 2 housing authorities serving Hempstead, 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 Hempstead, 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.

2
Agencies
9
Open Now
4
Closed

Affordable Housing in Hempstead, New York

Hempstead, New York is served by 2 housing authorities offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 9 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Hempstead area. There are also 176 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.

Housing programs available in Hempstead include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing.

Latest Opening

Town of Hempstead Housing Authority opened its other waitlist on Jun 1, 2019.

About Housing in Hempstead, New York

Affordable housing options in Hempstead, New York are managed by two local authorities: the Town of Hempstead Housing Authority and the Village of Hempstead Housing Authority. Across the area, there are approximately 2,065 assisted housing units available. Currently, 8 waiting lists are open for various housing programs, while 4 lists are closed.

Those seeking housing assistance should be aware that the waiting lists for Public Housing and Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) programs are presently closed. However, there are multiple open waiting lists, primarily for the Golden Age Coop housing program and other specialized housing options, which may cater to senior or specific populations. It is important to frequently check the status of these lists as they can open or close based on availability and demand.

For a family of four, the very low-income limit for the Nassau-Suffolk, NY HUD Metro FMR Area is $82,450 per year (FY2025). This income guideline is crucial for determining eligibility for many assistance programs. The New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) also oversees affordable housing initiatives statewide. Prospective applicants should contact the respective housing authorities directly to learn about specific program requirements and application procedures.

How to Apply for Section 8 in Hempstead

To apply for housing assistance in Hempstead, New York, submit an application directly to one of the 2 housing authorities serving the Hempstead area (listed above). Right now, 9 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 $82,450/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 Hempstead include Golden Age Coop, Other, Other (Golden Age Coop), Other: Golden Age Coop, other, Golden Age Coop housing program, Other (Golden Age Coop Housing Program), Golden Age Coop Housing, Golden Age Coop Housing Program, 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).

Hempstead, New York Section 8 Income Limits

To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Hempstead, New York, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Nassau-Suffolk, NY HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $82,450 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $164,900.

Household Size Extremely Low
30% AMI
Very Low
50% AMI
Low Income
80% AMI
1 Person $34,650 $57,750 $84,400
2 Persons $39,600 $66,000 $96,450
3 Persons $44,550 $74,250 $108,500
4 Persons $49,450 $82,450 $120,550
5 Persons $53,450 $89,050 $130,200
6 Persons $57,400 $95,650 $139,850
7 Persons $61,350 $102,250 $149,500
8 Persons $65,300 $108,850 $159,150
Source: HUD FY 2025 Income Limits Area Median Income: $164,900 Effective April 1, 2025
How do income limits affect my eligibility?

Housing authorities in Hempstead 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 Hempstead?
Yes — there are currently 9 open waiting lists in Hempstead, New York. Click into any housing authority above marked "Open" for application details and official portal links.
Can I apply for Section 8 in Hempstead 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 Hempstead?
Wait times vary depending on demand, funding, and your priority status. National averages range from 6 months to 5+ years. Hempstead 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 York