Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Mercedes, Texas
There is 1 open waiting list in the Mercedes area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Mercedes, Texas 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 Mercedes, 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 Mercedes, Texas
Mercedes, Texas is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 1 waiting list is accepting applications in the Mercedes area. There are also 25 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Mercedes include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing. Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: HCV (1 open).
Latest Opening
Mercedes Housing Authority opened its HCV waitlist on Mar 20, 2026.
About Housing in Mercedes, Texas
Mercedes, Texas, provides affordable housing opportunities primarily through the Mercedes Housing Authority. The area is home to approximately 654 assisted housing units. Currently, one housing waiting list is open for applicants seeking assistance in the city.
For those interested in housing assistance, the Mercedes Housing Authority currently manages an open waiting list for its Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program. This program assists eligible families with rent in the private market. While a Public Housing waiting list is also available in the area, it is presently closed to new applications. To provide an example of eligibility, a family of four would need to meet a very low income limit of $39,700 per year or less, according to the FY2025 guidelines for the McAllen-Edinburg-Mission, TX MSA.
Individuals interested in applying for assistance should directly contact the Mercedes Housing Authority for current application procedures, specific eligibility details, and any updates on waiting list statuses. The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) also oversees and supports affordable housing initiatives statewide.
Housing Authorities in Mercedes
How to Apply for Section 8 in Mercedes
To apply for housing assistance in Mercedes, Texas, submit an application directly to Mercedes Housing Authority, the housing authority serving this area. 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 $39,700/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 Mercedes include 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).
Mercedes, Texas Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Mercedes, Texas, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the McAllen-Edinburg-Mission, TX MSA area. A family of four must earn less than $39,700 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $63,300.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $16,700 | $27,800 | $44,450 |
| 2 Persons | $21,150 | $31,800 | $50,800 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $35,750 | $57,150 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $39,700 | $63,500 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $42,900 | $68,600 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $46,100 | $73,700 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $49,250 | $78,750 |
| 8 Persons | $52,450 | $52,450 | $83,850 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Mercedes 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 Mercedes and have active housing programs.