Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in San Juan, Puerto Rico
There are 9 open waiting lists in the San Juan area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 2 housing authorities serving San Juan, Puerto Rico 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 San Juan, 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 San Juan, Puerto Rico
San Juan, Puerto Rico is served by 2 housing authorities offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 9 waiting lists are accepting applications in the San Juan area. There are also 85 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in San Juan include Public Housing, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), RAD, Mainstream. Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: Public Housing (2 open), PBV (2 open).
Latest Opening
Municipality of San Juan opened its Moderate Housing waitlist .
About Housing in San Juan, Puerto Rico
San Juan, Puerto Rico, offers various affordable housing options for eligible residents, managed primarily by two housing authorities: the Puerto Rico Public Housing Administration and the Municipality of San Juan. These agencies collectively oversee approximately 71,608 assisted housing units across the area. Currently, there are 9 open waiting lists available for new applications, with 2 lists currently closed.
Individuals and families seeking housing assistance in San Juan should explore the diverse programs offered. Open waiting lists may include opportunities through programs such as Public Housing, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Moderate Rehabilitation (Mod Rehab), Single Room Occupancy (SRO), and Moderate Housing. Each program has specific eligibility criteria, and applicants are encouraged to review these requirements carefully.
Understanding income limitations is crucial for eligibility. For instance, in the San Juan-Guaynabo, PR HUD Metro FMR Area, a family of four is considered Very Low Income with an annual income of $19,450 (FY2025 data). Prospective applicants should ensure they meet the specific income thresholds for the programs they are interested in. Staying informed about open application periods and preparing necessary documentation will be key steps in the application process.
Housing Authorities in San Juan
Municipality of San Juan
San Juan, Puerto Rico · RQ006
Puerto Rico Public Housing Administration
San Juan, Puerto Rico · RQ005
How to Apply for Section 8 in San Juan
To apply for housing assistance in San Juan, Puerto Rico, submit an application directly to one of the 2 housing authorities serving the San Juan area (listed above). Right now, 9 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 $19,450/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 San Juan include Mod Rehab, Public Housing, Moderate Rehab, Moderate Housing, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), SRO, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), HOME, HOPWA, Moderate Housing Program, HOME Investment Partnership Program, HOME Investment Partnerships, RAD, Mainstream. 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).
San Juan, Puerto Rico Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in San Juan, Puerto Rico, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the San Juan-Guaynabo, PR HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $19,450 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $38,900.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $13,650 | $13,650 | $21,800 |
| 2 Persons | $15,600 | $15,600 | $24,900 |
| 3 Persons | $17,550 | $17,550 | $28,000 |
| 4 Persons | $19,450 | $19,450 | $31,100 |
| 5 Persons | $21,050 | $21,050 | $33,600 |
| 6 Persons | $22,600 | $22,600 | $36,100 |
| 7 Persons | $24,150 | $24,150 | $38,600 |
| 8 Persons | $25,700 | $25,700 | $41,100 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in San Juan 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 San Juan and have active housing programs.