Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Rochester, New York
There are 2 open waiting lists in the Rochester area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Rochester, 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 Rochester, 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 Rochester, New York
Rochester, New York is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 2 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Rochester area. There are also 10 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Rochester include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing.
Latest Opening
Rochester Housing Authority opened its EHV waitlist on Jul 19, 2021.
About Housing in Rochester, New York
Rochester, New York, is served by the Rochester Housing Authority, which manages various affordable housing programs designed to assist low-income individuals and families. Currently, Rochester has 2 waiting lists open for new applications, while 2 others are closed.
Programs available in the area include the Emergency Housing Voucher (EHV), which currently has 1 open waiting list. Other programs, such as the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV), Project-Based Voucher (PBV), and Public Housing, each have 1 list that is currently closed to new applicants. For a family of four, the Very Low Income limit for the Rochester, NY MSA area is $51,950 per year for Fiscal Year 2025, serving as a general income guideline for eligibility. There are approximately 12,789 assisted housing units throughout the Rochester area.
Applicants seeking assistance should contact the Rochester Housing Authority directly for the most current information on waitlist openings and specific program requirements. Additionally, NY State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) is the state housing agency that oversees many affordable housing initiatives across New York, offering broader resources.
Housing Authorities in Rochester
How to Apply for Section 8 in Rochester
To apply for housing assistance in Rochester, New York, submit an application directly to Rochester Housing Authority, the housing authority serving this area. Right now, 2 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 $51,950/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 Rochester include EHV, Emergency Housing Voucher, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing, 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).
Rochester, New York Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Rochester, New York, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Rochester, NY MSA area. A family of four must earn less than $51,950 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $103,900.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $21,850 | $36,400 | $58,200 |
| 2 Persons | $24,950 | $41,600 | $66,500 |
| 3 Persons | $28,050 | $46,800 | $74,800 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $51,950 | $83,100 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $56,150 | $89,750 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $60,300 | $96,400 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $64,450 | $103,050 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $68,600 | $109,700 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Rochester 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 Rochester and have active housing programs.