Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Altoona, Pennsylvania
There are 3 open waiting lists in the Altoona area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Altoona, Pennsylvania 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 Altoona, 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 Altoona, Pennsylvania
Altoona, Pennsylvania is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 3 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Altoona area. There are also 13 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Altoona include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing. Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: HCV (1 open), PBV (1 open), Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Altoona Housing Authority opened its PBV waitlist on Oct 9, 2023.
About Housing in Altoona, Pennsylvania
For individuals and families seeking affordable housing assistance in Altoona, Pennsylvania, the primary service provider is the Altoona Housing Authority. This authority manages various programs designed to help income-eligible households secure stable and affordable living arrangements. Currently, there are three waiting lists open for housing assistance programs, with no closed lists at this time. These opportunities are available through the Altoona Housing Authority.
The Altoona Housing Authority offers assistance through three distinct program types, each with an open waiting list: the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, Project-Based Voucher (PBV) program, and Public Housing program. These programs collectively support approximately 1,520 assisted housing units throughout the Altoona area. When applying, it's important to understand the income eligibility criteria. For example, a family of four seeking "Very Low Income" housing in the Altoona, PA MSA area would typically need to have an annual household income at or below $41,900 for the Fiscal Year 2025.
Prospective applicants are encouraged to directly contact the Altoona Housing Authority for detailed information on how to apply, specific eligibility requirements for each program, and to inquire about the current status of the open waiting lists. It is advisable to gather all necessary documentation and submit applications promptly and accurately. The Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA) also plays a role in state-level housing initiatives, though direct applications for these local programs are handled by the Altoona Housing Authority.
Housing Authorities in Altoona
How to Apply for Section 8 in Altoona
To apply for housing assistance in Altoona, Pennsylvania, submit an application directly to Altoona Housing Authority, the housing authority serving this area. Right now, 3 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 $41,900/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 Altoona include Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), 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).
Altoona, Pennsylvania Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Altoona, Pennsylvania, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Altoona, PA MSA area. A family of four must earn less than $41,900 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $83,800.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $17,650 | $29,350 | $46,950 |
| 2 Persons | $21,150 | $33,550 | $53,650 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $37,750 | $60,350 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $41,900 | $67,050 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $45,300 | $72,450 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $48,650 | $77,800 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $52,000 | $83,150 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $55,350 | $88,550 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Altoona 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 Altoona and have active housing programs.