Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Portsmouth, Rhode Island
There are 2 open waiting lists in the Portsmouth area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Portsmouth, Rhode Island 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, Rhode Island
Portsmouth, Rhode Island is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 2 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Portsmouth area. There are also 176 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 Housing Authority opened its HCV waitlist on Jun 6, 2019.
About Housing in Portsmouth, Rhode Island
Individuals and families seeking affordable housing assistance in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, are primarily served by the **Portsmouth Housing Authority**. This agency currently manages two open waiting lists for housing programs. Available programs include the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, which has one open list, and the Public Housing program, also with one open list. There are currently no closed waiting lists for these programs.
Eligibility for these programs depends on various factors, including household size and income. For example, a family of four applying for Very Low Income housing in the Providence-Fall River, RI-MA HUD Metro FMR Area for FY2025 must have an annual income no higher than $57,150. Rhode Island Housing serves as the state housing agency, providing broader resources and oversight for affordable housing initiatives across the state.
When applying, it is important to accurately complete all application forms and provide required documentation. Applicants should also regularly check the status of their applications and ensure their contact information remains current to avoid missing important notifications regarding their place on the waiting list or potential openings.
Housing Authorities in Portsmouth
How to Apply for Section 8 in Portsmouth
To apply for housing assistance in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, submit an application directly to Portsmouth Housing Authority, the housing authority serving this area. 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 $57,150/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 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).
Portsmouth, Rhode Island Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Providence-Fall River, RI-MA HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $57,150 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $114,300.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $24,050 | $40,050 | $64,050 |
| 2 Persons | $27,450 | $45,750 | $73,200 |
| 3 Persons | $30,900 | $51,450 | $82,350 |
| 4 Persons | $34,300 | $57,150 | $91,450 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $61,750 | $98,800 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $66,300 | $106,100 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $70,900 | $113,400 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $75,450 | $120,750 |
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.