Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Memphis, Tennessee
All waiting lists in Memphis are currently closed. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Memphis, Tennessee 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 Memphis, 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 Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis, Tennessee is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Currently, all waitlists in Memphis are closed. Openings can happen with as little as 48 hours notice, so monitoring is critical. There are also 19 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Memphis include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Mainstream, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing, RAD.
Open Lists Nearby
While no waitlists are open in Memphis right now, there are 19 open lists within 50 miles. Most housing authorities accept applications from non-residents, so applying in neighboring cities is a practical strategy. Scroll down to "Nearby Cities" below for options.
About Housing in Memphis, Tennessee
Affordable housing assistance in Memphis, Tennessee is primarily managed by the Memphis Housing Authority (MHA). While MHA offers various vital programs, please be aware that currently, all three of their housing waitlists are closed to new applications. The programs available through MHA include Housing Choice Voucher (HCV), Mainstream, Project-Based Voucher (PBV), Public Housing, and RAD (Rental Assistance Demonstration). Each of these programs currently has a closed waiting list.
For those seeking assistance, it's important to understand the income qualifications. For instance, a family of four classified as Very Low Income in the Memphis, TN-MS-AR HUD Metro FMR Area must earn no more than $45,550 per year for FY2025. Across the area, there are approximately 12,104 assisted housing units designed to help residents with these income needs. Applicants are advised to regularly check the Memphis Housing Authority for any announcements regarding waitlist openings. Additionally, the Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) serves as the state housing agency and may offer further resources or information on affordable housing options within Tennessee.
Housing Authorities in Memphis
How to Apply for Section 8 in Memphis
To apply for housing assistance in Memphis, Tennessee, submit an application directly to Memphis Housing Authority, the housing authority serving this area. All waitlists are currently closed, but openings happen with as little as 48 hours 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 $45,550/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 Memphis include Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), 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).
Memphis, Tennessee Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Memphis, Tennessee, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Memphis, TN-MS-AR HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $45,550 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $91,100.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $19,150 | $31,900 | $51,050 |
| 2 Persons | $21,900 | $36,450 | $58,350 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $41,000 | $65,650 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $45,550 | $72,900 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $49,200 | $78,750 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $52,850 | $84,600 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $56,500 | $90,400 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $60,150 | $96,250 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Memphis 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 Memphis and have active housing programs.