Martins Ferry, OH

Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Martins Ferry, Ohio

There are 2 open waiting lists in the Martins Ferry area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Martins Ferry, 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 Martins Ferry, 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.

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Affordable Housing in Martins Ferry, Ohio

Martins Ferry, Ohio 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 Martins Ferry area. There are also 45 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.

Housing programs available in Martins Ferry include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing. Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: HCV (1 open), Public Housing (1 open).

Latest Opening

Belmont Metropolitan Housing Authority opened its Public Housing waitlist on Feb 28, 2026.

About Housing in Martins Ferry, Ohio

For individuals and families seeking affordable housing options in Martins Ferry, Ohio, the primary resource is the Belmont Metropolitan Housing Authority (BMHA). This authority currently manages two open waiting lists. Programs available include Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) and Public Housing. There is one open list for each of these vital assistance programs. Across the broader area, approximately 1,001 assisted housing units are available to help residents secure stable and affordable homes.

Eligibility for these programs is typically based on income. For example, a family of four considered Very Low Income in the Wheeling, WV-OH Metropolitan Statistical Area for Fiscal Year 2025 would have an income at or below $41,050 per year. It is crucial for applicants to confirm the specific income limits and eligibility criteria directly with the Belmont Metropolitan Housing Authority, as these can vary by program and change periodically. While the Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA) oversees state-level housing initiatives, local waitlists are managed by the housing authority serving Martins Ferry.

How to Apply for Section 8 in Martins Ferry

To apply for housing assistance in Martins Ferry, Ohio, submit an application directly to Belmont Metropolitan 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 $41,050/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 Martins Ferry 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).

Martins Ferry, Ohio Section 8 Income Limits

To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Martins Ferry, Ohio, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Wheeling, WV-OH MSA area. A family of four must earn less than $41,050 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $82,100.

Household Size Extremely Low
30% AMI
Very Low
50% AMI
Low Income
80% AMI
1 Person $17,300 $28,750 $46,000
2 Persons $21,150 $32,850 $52,600
3 Persons $26,650 $36,950 $59,150
4 Persons $32,150 $41,050 $65,700
5 Persons $37,650 $44,350 $71,000
6 Persons $43,150 $47,650 $76,250
7 Persons $48,650 $50,950 $81,500
8 Persons $54,150 $54,200 $86,750
Source: HUD FY 2025 Income Limits Area Median Income: $82,100 Effective April 1, 2025
How do income limits affect my eligibility?

Housing authorities in Martins Ferry 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there open Section 8 waiting lists in Martins Ferry?
Yes — there are currently 2 open waiting lists in Martins Ferry, Ohio. Click into any housing authority above marked "Open" for application details and official portal links.
Can I apply for Section 8 in Martins Ferry if I don't live there?
In most cases, yes. While some PHAs give preference to local residents, there is no federal rule requiring you to live in a city to apply for its waiting list. Many applicants apply to housing authorities in multiple cities and states simultaneously to increase their chances of receiving assistance.
How long is the wait for Section 8 in Martins Ferry?
Wait times vary depending on demand, funding, and your priority status. National averages range from 6 months to 5+ years. Martins Ferry wait times depend on the specific housing authority and program type. Contact the PHA directly for current estimates, and consider applying to multiple PHAs to improve your chances.
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