Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Waco, Texas
There is 1 open waiting list in the Waco area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Waco, 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 Waco, 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 Waco, Texas
Waco, 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 Waco area. There are also 35 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Waco include Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing, RAD. Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: PBV (1 open).
Latest Opening
Housing Authority of the City of Waco opened its PBV waitlist on Feb 19, 2026.
About Housing in Waco, Texas
Affordable housing assistance in Waco, Texas is primarily managed by the Housing Authority of the City of Waco. This authority, along with other providers, contributes to approximately 3,615 assisted housing units available in the area. While there are multiple programs designed to help low-income families, it's important to note that currently only one waiting list is open for new applications, with three others closed.
The Housing Authority of the City of Waco offers several programs, including Housing Choice Voucher (HCV), Project-Based Voucher (PBV), Public Housing, and Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD). Currently, the PBV program is the only one with an open waiting list for new applicants, while the HCV, Public Housing, and RAD lists are closed. To qualify for very low-income assistance in the Waco, TX HUD Metro FMR Area, a family of four must have an annual income no higher than $44,450, according to the FY2025 guidelines. Applicants should always verify current income limits and eligibility requirements directly with the housing authority.
For broader housing resources and information, the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) serves as the state housing agency. Prospective applicants are encouraged to frequently check the Housing Authority of the City of Waco's official announcements for any changes in waitlist status or new program openings. Due to limited availability, understanding specific program requirements and applying promptly when lists open is crucial for those seeking assistance.
Housing Authorities in Waco
How to Apply for Section 8 in Waco
To apply for housing assistance in Waco, Texas, submit an application directly to Housing Authority of the City of Waco, 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 $44,450/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 Waco include Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), RAD, 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).
Waco, Texas Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Waco, Texas, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Waco, TX HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $44,450 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $89,600.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $18,700 | $31,100 | $49,800 |
| 2 Persons | $21,350 | $35,550 | $56,900 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $40,000 | $64,000 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $44,450 | $71,100 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $48,050 | $76,800 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $51,550 | $82,500 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $55,100 | $88,200 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $58,650 | $93,900 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Waco 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 Waco and have active housing programs.