Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Salem, Oregon
There are 2 open waiting lists in the Salem area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 2 housing authorities serving Salem, Oregon 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 Salem, 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 Salem, Oregon
Salem, Oregon is served by 2 housing authorities offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 2 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Salem area. There are also 26 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Salem include Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV). Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: PBV (1 open), Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Marion County Housing Authority opened its PBV waitlist on Sep 22, 2025.
About Housing in Salem, Oregon
Affordable housing in Salem, Oregon, is primarily administered by two key agencies: the Housing Authority of the City of Salem and the Marion County Housing Authority. These authorities manage various programs designed to assist individuals and families with housing needs. Currently, prospective applicants will find that 2 housing waiting lists are open for new applications in the area, while 9 are closed.
Programs available include Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), and Public Housing. While all HCV lists are currently closed, one list is open for PBV programs and another for Public Housing programs. Other programs, such as Farm Labor Housing, PBRA, Moderate Rehabilitation, and HUD 202/8 programs, presently have closed waiting lists. Across these programs, there are approximately 4,689 assisted housing units available in the Salem area. Eligibility often depends on income; for instance, the Very Low Income limit for a family of four in the Salem, OR MSA is $46,300 per year for FY2025.
Applicants are encouraged to monitor openings closely and prepare necessary documentation. The state housing agency, Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS), also plays a role in supporting affordable housing initiatives across the state.
How to Apply for Section 8 in Salem
To apply for housing assistance in Salem, Oregon, submit an application directly to one of the 2 housing authorities serving the Salem area (listed above). 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 $46,300/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 Salem include Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), HUD 202/8 Program, PBRA, Moderate Rehabilitation, HUD 202/8, Farm Labor 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).
Salem, Oregon Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Salem, Oregon, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Salem, OR MSA area. A family of four must earn less than $46,300 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $92,600.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $19,500 | $32,450 | $51,900 |
| 2 Persons | $22,250 | $37,050 | $59,300 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $41,700 | $66,700 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $46,300 | $74,100 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $50,050 | $80,050 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $53,750 | $86,000 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $57,450 | $91,900 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $61,150 | $97,850 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Salem 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 Salem and have active housing programs.