Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Kelso, Washington
All waiting lists in Kelso are currently closed. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Kelso, 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 Kelso, 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 Kelso, Washington
Kelso, Washington is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Currently, all waitlists in Kelso are closed. Openings can happen with as little as 48 hours notice, so monitoring is critical. There are also 11 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Kelso include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing.
Open Lists Nearby
While no waitlists are open in Kelso right now, there are 11 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 Kelso, Washington
For individuals and families seeking affordable housing assistance in Kelso, Washington, the primary resource is the Housing Authority of City of Kelso. This authority manages programs designed to help make housing more accessible within the community. There are approximately 428 assisted housing units available in the area.
The Housing Authority of City of Kelso offers assistance through several key programs: Housing Choice Voucher (HCV), Project-Based Voucher (PBV), and Public Housing. It is important to note that currently, 0 waiting lists are open, while 3 lists are closed across these programs. For prospective applicants, the Very Low Income limit for a family of four in the Longview-Kelso, WA MSA area for FY2025 is $47,400 per year. Applicants should regularly check the Housing Authority's official channels for updates on when waitlists may open.
The Washington State Department of Commerce serves as the state housing agency, offering additional resources and oversight for housing initiatives throughout Washington.
Housing Authorities in Kelso
How to Apply for Section 8 in Kelso
To apply for housing assistance in Kelso, Washington, submit an application directly to Housing Authority of City of Kelso, 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 $47,400/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 Kelso include Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), 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).
Kelso, Washington Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Kelso, Washington, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Longview-Kelso, WA MSA area. A family of four must earn less than $47,400 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $85,500.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $19,950 | $33,200 | $53,100 |
| 2 Persons | $22,800 | $37,950 | $60,700 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $42,700 | $68,300 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $47,400 | $75,850 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $51,200 | $81,950 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $55,000 | $88,000 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $58,800 | $94,100 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $62,600 | $100,150 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Kelso 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 Kelso and have active housing programs.