Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Jamestown, New York
There are 5 open waiting lists in the Jamestown area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 2 housing authorities serving Jamestown, 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 Jamestown, 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 Jamestown, New York
Jamestown, New York is served by 2 housing authorities offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 5 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Jamestown area. There are also 16 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Jamestown include Public Housing, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Mainstream, RAD. Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: Public Housing (1 open), PBV (1 open).
Latest Opening
Jamestown Housing Authority opened its Public Housing waitlist on Mar 7, 2026.
About Housing in Jamestown, New York
Jamestown, New York offers affordable housing assistance primarily through two key providers: the Jamestown Housing Authority and Southern Tier Environments for Living (STEL). These agencies manage approximately 543 assisted housing units within the area, with oversight from the NY State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR). Currently, three waiting lists are open for applicants seeking housing assistance, while others are temporarily closed.
For those seeking assistance, programs like Project-Based Vouchers (PBV) and Public Housing are available with active waiting lists. While other programs such as Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV) and Mainstream vouchers are presently closed, they may open in the future. A variety of other supportive and affordable housing programs also exist, with their availability changing over time. To qualify for many of these programs, income limits apply; for instance, a family of four in Chautauqua County earning $44,250 per year or less is considered Very Low Income for Fiscal Year 2025. It is important to directly check with the Jamestown Housing Authority and Southern Tier Environments for Living for the most current information on open waitlists, specific program details, and application procedures.
Housing Authorities in Jamestown
Jamestown Housing Authority
Jamestown, New York · NY017
Southern Tier Environments for Living
Jamestown, New York · NY889
How to Apply for Section 8 in Jamestown
To apply for housing assistance in Jamestown, New York, submit an application directly to one of the 2 housing authorities serving the Jamestown area (listed above). Right now, 5 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 $44,250/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 Jamestown include Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing, Other, Supported Housing/SRO, Supportive Housing (Treatment Apartments), Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Supportive Housing, RAD, Mainstream, Single Room Occupancy (SRO), Supported Housing, Single Room Occupancy, Community Residences, Other (Supportive Housing), Affordable Housing (STEL direct units), Supported Housing/Affordable Housing, Treatment Apartments, Affordable 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).
Jamestown, New York Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Jamestown, New York, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Chautauqua County, NY area. A family of four must earn less than $44,250 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $82,700.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $18,600 | $31,000 | $49,600 |
| 2 Persons | $21,250 | $35,400 | $56,650 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $39,850 | $63,750 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $44,250 | $70,800 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $47,800 | $76,500 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $51,350 | $82,150 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $54,900 | $87,800 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $58,450 | $93,500 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Jamestown 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 Jamestown and have active housing programs.