Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Ithaca, New York
There are 4 open waiting lists in the Ithaca area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Ithaca, 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 Ithaca, 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 Ithaca, New York
Ithaca, New York is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 4 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Ithaca area. There are also 18 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Ithaca include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing. Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: HCV (1 open), PBV (1 open), Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Ithaca Housing Authority opened its Other waitlist .
About Housing in Ithaca, New York
Seeking affordable housing options in Ithaca, New York? The Ithaca Housing Authority is the primary agency serving the area, offering various housing assistance programs. Currently, there are 4 open waiting lists available for prospective applicants, with no closed lists at this time.
Programs include Housing Choice Voucher (HCV), Project-Based Voucher (PBV), Public Housing, and other specialized programs. The Ithaca area offers approximately 1,387 total assisted housing units. To qualify for assistance, households must meet income guidelines. For example, the Very Low Income limit for a family of four in the Ithaca, NY MSA area for FY2025 is $60,150 per year. The NY State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) is the state housing agency involved in these efforts.
We encourage you to carefully review the requirements for each program and apply promptly to any open waiting lists that match your household's needs. Applying when lists are open is crucial for seeking assistance.
Housing Authorities in Ithaca
How to Apply for Section 8 in Ithaca
To apply for housing assistance in Ithaca, New York, submit an application directly to Ithaca Housing Authority, the housing authority serving this area. Right now, 4 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 $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 Ithaca include Other, Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV). 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).
Ithaca, New York Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Ithaca, 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 Ithaca 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 Ithaca and have active housing programs.