Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Reading, Pennsylvania
There is 1 open waiting list in the Reading area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 2 housing authorities serving Reading, 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 Reading, 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 Reading, Pennsylvania
Reading, Pennsylvania is served by 2 housing authorities offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 1 waiting list is accepting applications in the Reading area. There are also 35 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Reading include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), RAD.
Latest Opening
Housing Authority of the County of Berks opened its Other Senior Housing waitlist .
About Housing in Reading, Pennsylvania
For individuals and families seeking affordable housing assistance in Reading, Pennsylvania, it is important to know that the area is served by two main housing authorities: the Reading Housing Authority and the Housing Authority of the County of Berks. Navigating housing options requires awareness of current waitlist statuses. Currently, there is 1 housing waitlist open, while 6 others are closed.
Several vital programs aim to provide housing support. These include Housing Choice Voucher (HCV), Public Housing, Other Senior Housing, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), and Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD). As of now, only the Other Senior Housing program has an open waiting list. The Reading, PA MSA area offers approximately 3,180 assisted housing units in total. Eligibility for these programs often depends on income; for example, the Very Low Income limit for a family of four is $49,900 per year (FY2025).
Applicants are encouraged to regularly check for updates on all waiting lists, as openings can change. Understanding the specific income requirements and program criteria is crucial before applying. The Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA) serves as the state housing agency overseeing various housing initiatives. Prospective applicants should contact the respective housing authorities directly for application details and specific program information.
How to Apply for Section 8 in Reading
To apply for housing assistance in Reading, Pennsylvania, submit an application directly to one of the 2 housing authorities serving the Reading area (listed above). Right now, 1 waiting list is 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 $49,900/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 Reading include Other Senior Housing, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), RAD, 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).
Reading, Pennsylvania Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Reading, Pennsylvania, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Reading, PA MSA area. A family of four must earn less than $49,900 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $99,800.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $21,000 | $34,950 | $55,900 |
| 2 Persons | $24,000 | $39,950 | $63,900 |
| 3 Persons | $27,000 | $44,950 | $71,900 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $49,900 | $79,850 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $53,900 | $86,250 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $57,900 | $92,650 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $61,900 | $99,050 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $65,900 | $105,450 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Reading 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 Reading and have active housing programs.