Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Portsmouth, Ohio
There are 5 open waiting lists in the Portsmouth area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Portsmouth, 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 Portsmouth, 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 Portsmouth, Ohio
Portsmouth, Ohio is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 5 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Portsmouth area. There are also 32 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Portsmouth 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
Portsmouth Metropolitan Housing Authority opened its Unknown waitlist .
About Housing in Portsmouth, Ohio
Portsmouth, Ohio, is served by the Portsmouth Metropolitan Housing Authority (PMHA), the primary local agency dedicated to providing affordable housing opportunities. For those seeking housing assistance, understanding the available programs and eligibility requirements is a crucial first step.
Currently, PMHA has 5 waiting lists open for various housing programs. These include the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, Hisle Park, Multifamily, and Public Housing options. There is also an additional open list categorized as "Unknown," suggesting applicants should inquire directly with PMHA for more details on this specific opportunity. Across the Portsmouth area, there are approximately 1,271 assisted housing units available to help families and individuals find stable housing.
Eligibility for these programs often depends on income. For example, a family of four in the Scioto County, OH area must have an annual income at or below $42,600 to qualify as Very Low Income for FY2025. It is important to note that specific income limits and eligibility criteria can vary by program and change annually, so direct contact with PMHA is recommended for the most accurate and up-to-date information. The Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA) also plays a role at the state level in supporting affordable housing initiatives across Ohio.
Housing Authorities in Portsmouth
How to Apply for Section 8 in Portsmouth
To apply for housing assistance in Portsmouth, Ohio, submit an application directly to Portsmouth Metropolitan Housing Authority, the housing authority serving this area. 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 $42,600/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 Portsmouth include Unknown, Hisle Park, Multifamily, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing. 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).
Portsmouth, Ohio Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Portsmouth, Ohio, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Scioto County, OH area. A family of four must earn less than $42,600 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $75,200.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $17,900 | $29,850 | $47,750 |
| 2 Persons | $21,150 | $34,100 | $54,550 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $38,350 | $61,350 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $42,600 | $68,150 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $46,050 | $73,650 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $49,450 | $79,100 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $52,850 | $84,550 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $56,250 | $90,000 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth and have active housing programs.