Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Bismarck, North Dakota
There are 18 open waiting lists in the Bismarck area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 2 housing authorities serving Bismarck, North Dakota 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 Bismarck, 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 Bismarck, North Dakota
Bismarck, North Dakota is served by 2 housing authorities offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 18 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Bismarck area. There are also 3 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Bismarck include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV). Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: HCV (2 open), Public Housing (2 open), PBV (1 open).
Latest Opening
Burleigh County Housing Authority opened its Public Housing waitlist on Mar 19, 2026.
About Housing in Bismarck, North Dakota
For those seeking affordable housing assistance in Bismarck, North Dakota, services are primarily provided by two key agencies: the Burleigh County Housing Authority and the North Dakota Housing & Finance Agency. Currently, there are 17 open waiting lists across various programs. The Bismarck area has approximately 1,500 assisted housing units available, offering a range of options for eligible households. It is important to note that all waitlists are currently accepting applications.
Available programs include Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing, and Moderate Rehabilitation (Mod Rehab) options. Specific housing communities like Crescent Manor/Crescent West, Dakota II Apartments, and Dakota II Townhouse also have dedicated programs. Other assistance types such as Project-Based Vouchers (PBV) and the Opening Doors Program are available. Eligibility for these programs often depends on income; for instance, the Very Low Income limit for a family of four in the Bismarck, ND MSA area is $59,250 per year, as per FY2025 guidelines. Applicants should always confirm the most current income limits and specific requirements for their household size when applying to any program.
Housing Authorities in Bismarck
Burleigh County Housing Authority
Bismarck, North Dakota · ND021
North Dakota Housing & Finance Agency
Bismarck, North Dakota · ND901
How to Apply for Section 8 in Bismarck
To apply for housing assistance in Bismarck, North Dakota, submit an application directly to one of the 2 housing authorities serving the Bismarck area (listed above). Right now, 18 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 $59,250/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 Bismarck include Other, Other (Dakota II Apartments), Other (Dakota II Townhouse), Public Housing, Dakota II Apartments, Dakota II Townhouse, Crescent Manor/Crescent West, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), other, Moderate Rehabilitation, Moderate Rehabilitation (Mod Rehab), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Opening Doors Program, Opening Doors, Mod Rehab. 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).
Bismarck, North Dakota Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Bismarck, North Dakota, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Bismarck, ND MSA area. A family of four must earn less than $59,250 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $128,200.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $24,900 | $41,500 | $66,400 |
| 2 Persons | $28,450 | $47,400 | $75,850 |
| 3 Persons | $32,000 | $53,350 | $85,350 |
| 4 Persons | $35,550 | $59,250 | $94,800 |
| 5 Persons | $38,400 | $64,000 | $102,400 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $68,750 | $110,000 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $73,500 | $117,600 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $78,250 | $125,150 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Bismarck 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 Bismarck and have active housing programs.