Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Schenectady, New York
There is 1 open waiting list in the Schenectady area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Schenectady, 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 Schenectady, 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 Schenectady, New York
Schenectady, 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 Schenectady area. There are also 143 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Schenectady include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV). Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Schenectady Municipal Housing Authority opened its Public Housing waitlist .
About Housing in Schenectady, New York
Affordable housing in Schenectady, New York is primarily administered by the Schenectady Municipal Housing Authority (SMHA). This authority serves residents seeking various forms of housing assistance within the community. There are approximately 2,427 assisted housing units available across the area. Currently, one waiting list is open for applicants, while another is closed.
The Schenectady Municipal Housing Authority manages programs including Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV) and Public Housing. It is important to note that the HCV waiting list is currently closed. However, the Public Housing waiting list is open and accepting applications. For a family of four, the Very Low Income limit for the Albany-Schenectady-Troy, NY MSA area is $58,050 per year for FY2025; applicants must meet income eligibility requirements to qualify for assistance.
Those interested in applying for housing assistance in Schenectady should directly contact the Schenectady Municipal Housing Authority for specific application instructions, eligibility criteria, and current status of waitlists. The state housing agency, NY State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR), also provides resources and oversight for affordable housing initiatives throughout New York. Staying informed about waitlist openings and promptly submitting complete applications are key steps in the process.
Housing Authorities in Schenectady
How to Apply for Section 8 in Schenectady
To apply for housing assistance in Schenectady, New York, submit an application directly to Schenectady Municipal 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 $58,050/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 Schenectady 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).
Schenectady, New York Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Schenectady, New York, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Albany-Schenectady-Troy, NY MSA area. A family of four must earn less than $58,050 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $116,100.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $24,400 | $40,650 | $65,050 |
| 2 Persons | $27,900 | $46,450 | $74,350 |
| 3 Persons | $31,400 | $52,250 | $83,650 |
| 4 Persons | $34,850 | $58,050 | $92,900 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $62,700 | $100,350 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $67,350 | $107,800 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $72,000 | $115,200 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $76,650 | $122,650 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Schenectady 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 Schenectady and have active housing programs.