Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Canton, Ohio
There is 1 open waiting list in the Canton area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Canton, Ohio 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 Canton, 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 Canton, Ohio
Canton, Ohio 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 Canton area. There are also 49 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Canton include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV). Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Stark Metropolitian Housing Authority opened its Public Housing waitlist on Nov 1, 2023.
About Housing in Canton, Ohio
Affordable housing assistance in Canton, Ohio is primarily administered by the Stark Metropolitan Housing Authority (SMHA). Currently, SMHA manages programs with one open waiting list and one closed waiting list. The Public Housing program currently has an open waiting list, which provides affordable rental units directly managed by the housing authority. However, the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, which offers rental assistance to help low-income families afford housing in the private market, currently has a closed waiting list in Canton.
To be eligible for housing assistance, applicants must meet specific income requirements. For a family of four in the Canton-Massillon, OH Metropolitan Statistical Area, the Very Low Income limit for FY2025 is $43,250 per year. These limits are subject to change and vary depending on family size. It is important for prospective applicants to confirm the most current income guidelines and application procedures directly with the Stark Metropolitan Housing Authority. The Canton area is served by approximately 4,260 assisted housing units in total. Additionally, the Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA) serves as the state housing agency, offering resources and programs statewide.
Housing Authorities in Canton
How to Apply for Section 8 in Canton
To apply for housing assistance in Canton, Ohio, submit an application directly to Stark Metropolitian 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 $43,250/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 Canton 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).
Canton, Ohio Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Canton, Ohio, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Canton-Massillon, OH MSA area. A family of four must earn less than $43,250 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $86,500.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $18,200 | $30,300 | $48,450 |
| 2 Persons | $21,150 | $34,600 | $55,400 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $38,950 | $62,300 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $43,250 | $69,200 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $46,750 | $74,750 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $50,200 | $80,300 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $53,650 | $85,850 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $57,100 | $91,350 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Canton 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 Canton and have active housing programs.