Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Bellingham, Washington
All waiting lists in Bellingham are currently closed. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 2 housing authorities serving Bellingham, Washington 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 Bellingham, 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 Bellingham, Washington
Bellingham, Washington is served by 2 housing authorities offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Currently, all waitlists in Bellingham are closed. Openings can happen with as little as 48 hours notice, so monitoring is critical. There are also 5 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Bellingham include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing.
Open Lists Nearby
While no waitlists are open in Bellingham right now, there are 5 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 Bellingham, Washington
Seeking affordable housing assistance in Bellingham, Washington involves two primary agencies: the Housing Authority City of Bellingham and the Housing Authority of Whatcom County. Currently, all 6 housing assistance waiting lists for these authorities are closed, with 0 open for new applications. This includes programs like the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV), Project-Based Voucher (PBV), and Public Housing, each of which has 2 closed lists for new applicants.
While waiting lists are currently closed, understanding the available programs and requirements is crucial. Together, these authorities manage approximately 2,531 assisted housing units in the Bellingham area. For a family of four, the Very Low Income limit is $54,200 per year, as defined for the Bellingham, WA MSA in FY2025. These income limits are set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
To increase your chances of securing affordable housing, it is important to regularly check the official websites of both the Housing Authority City of Bellingham and the Housing Authority of Whatcom County for updates on waiting list openings. You can also monitor information from the Washington State Department of Commerce, which oversees housing programs statewide. Staying informed about application periods is key when opportunities arise.
How to Apply for Section 8 in Bellingham
To apply for housing assistance in Bellingham, Washington, submit an application directly to one of the 2 housing authorities serving the Bellingham area (listed above). 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 $54,200/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 Bellingham include Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), 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).
Bellingham, Washington Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Bellingham, Washington, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Bellingham, WA MSA area. A family of four must earn less than $54,200 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $108,400.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $22,750 | $37,950 | $60,700 |
| 2 Persons | $26,000 | $43,400 | $69,400 |
| 3 Persons | $29,250 | $48,800 | $78,050 |
| 4 Persons | $32,500 | $54,200 | $86,700 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $58,550 | $93,650 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $62,900 | $100,600 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $67,250 | $107,550 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $71,550 | $114,450 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Bellingham 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 Bellingham and have active housing programs.