Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Cleveland, Ohio
There are 5 open waiting lists in the Cleveland area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 2 housing authorities serving Cleveland, 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 Cleveland, 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 Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland, Ohio 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 Cleveland area. There are also 20 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Cleveland include Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Mainstream, RAD. Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: PBV (1 open), Public Housing (1 open), HCV (1 open).
Latest Opening
Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority opened its Moderate Rehabilitation waitlist .
About Housing in Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland, Ohio offers various affordable housing options primarily through two key housing authorities: Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA) and Emerald Development and Economic Network (EDEN). These agencies manage approximately 21,373 assisted housing units across the metropolitan area. While many waiting lists are currently closed, with 26 inactive, there are 5 waiting lists open for applications. It is crucial for individuals seeking housing assistance to regularly check for new openings and apply when eligible.
Programs available in Cleveland include Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing, Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), and Moderate Rehabilitation (Mod Rehab), among many others like Supportive Housing and the Housing Assistance Program (HAP). Eligibility for these programs is largely based on household income. For instance, a family of four seeking very low-income assistance in the Cleveland area would typically need to meet an income threshold of $49,700 per year or less, according to FY2025 guidelines. The Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA) also supports affordable housing initiatives statewide. Applicants are advised to review specific program criteria carefully and maintain updated contact information with the housing authorities.
Housing Authorities in Cleveland
Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority
Cleveland, Ohio · OH003
Emerald Development and Economic Network
Cleveland, Ohio · OH882
How to Apply for Section 8 in Cleveland
To apply for housing assistance in Cleveland, Ohio, submit an application directly to one of the 2 housing authorities serving the Cleveland 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 $49,700/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 Cleveland include Public Housing, Moderate Rehabilitation, Mod Rehab, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Mainstream, Other Housing Programs, Other Supportive Housing, HAP, Housing Assistance Program (HAP), Supportive Housing - EDEN Properties, Long-Term Supportive Housing Subsidy Programs, Sponsor-Based Rental Assistance (SRA), Rapid Re-Housing, Re-Entry Housing Assistance, Eviction Prevention Services, Supportive Housing (HUD 811/202/8), EDEN-Owned Scattered Site Housing, Other (General EDEN Programs/Referral Based), Other Programs, other, Other, HUD Multi-Family Properties, Supportive Housing, HUD 811 and 202/8 Supportive Housing, Multi-family units for people with disabilities, HUD 811 and 202/8 properties, Supportive Housing (HUD 811 and 202/8), RAD. 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).
Cleveland, Ohio Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Cleveland, Ohio, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Cleveland, OH HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $49,700 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $99,400.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $20,900 | $34,800 | $55,650 |
| 2 Persons | $23,850 | $39,800 | $63,600 |
| 3 Persons | $26,850 | $44,750 | $71,550 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $49,700 | $79,500 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $53,700 | $85,900 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $57,700 | $92,250 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $61,650 | $98,600 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $65,650 | $104,950 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Cleveland 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 Cleveland and have active housing programs.