Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Rapid City, South Dakota
There are 3 open waiting lists in the Rapid City area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Rapid City, South Dakota 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 Rapid City, 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 Rapid City, South Dakota
Rapid City, South Dakota 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 Rapid City area. There are also 9 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Rapid City include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing, VASH. Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: HCV (1 open), Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Pennington County Housing and Redevelopment Commission opened its Public Housing waitlist .
About Housing in Rapid City, South Dakota
Rapid City, South Dakota, is primarily served by the Pennington County Housing and Redevelopment Commission, which manages affordable housing assistance for the area. Currently, there are 3 open waiting lists for various programs, with 1 list closed. Programs with open waiting lists include the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, Public Housing, and Rural Development. While the HOME and VASH programs also exist in the area, their waiting lists are not currently open. Individuals and families seeking assistance should contact the Pennington County Housing and Redevelopment Commission directly to learn about application procedures and eligibility.
Eligibility for these programs often depends on household income. For example, a family of four must generally earn below $49,050 per year to qualify as Very Low Income in the Rapid City, SD HUD Metro FMR Area, according to FY2025 guidelines. This income limit is a crucial factor in determining eligibility for many affordable housing programs. Rapid City has approximately 1,972 assisted housing units in total. The South Dakota Housing Development Authority (SDHDA) also plays a role in supporting affordable housing initiatives across the state.
When applying, it is important to gather all necessary documentation and submit your application accurately. Waiting lists can vary in length, so it is advisable to apply as soon as you are eligible. Always check the current status of waiting lists directly with the housing authority to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.
How to Apply for Section 8 in Rapid City
To apply for housing assistance in Rapid City, South Dakota, submit an application directly to Pennington County Housing and Redevelopment Commission, 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 $49,050/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 Rapid City include Rural Development, Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), VASH, HOME. 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).
Rapid City, South Dakota Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Rapid City, South Dakota, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Rapid City, SD HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $49,050 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $100,600.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $20,650 | $34,350 | $54,950 |
| 2 Persons | $23,600 | $39,250 | $62,800 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $44,150 | $70,650 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $49,050 | $78,500 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $53,000 | $84,800 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $56,900 | $91,100 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $60,850 | $97,350 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $64,750 | $103,650 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Rapid City 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 Rapid City and have active housing programs.