Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Seattle, Washington
There are 5 open waiting lists in the Seattle area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Seattle, 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 Seattle, 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 Seattle, Washington
Seattle, Washington is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 5 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Seattle area. There are also 19 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Seattle include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing. Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: HCV (1 open), Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Seattle Housing Authority opened its Seattle Senior Housing Program (SSHP) waitlist .
About Housing in Seattle, Washington
Seattle, Washington offers various affordable housing options primarily managed by the Seattle Housing Authority. Currently, this agency has 5 open waiting lists, with programs available including Housing Choice Voucher (HCV), Public Housing, and several Senior Housing initiatives such as the Seattle Senior Housing Program (SSHP) and a general Senior Housing program. It's important for applicants to identify which programs best suit their needs.
The Seattle area has approximately 18,806 assisted housing units. To qualify for many programs, household income must fall within specific limits. For instance, a family of four is considered Very Low Income if their annual household income is $78,550 or less in the Seattle-Bellevue, WA HUD Metro FMR Area, according to FY2025 guidelines. This serves as a key benchmark for eligibility. The Washington State Department of Commerce also plays a role in state-level housing efforts. Prospective applicants should gather necessary documentation and apply promptly when waiting lists are open, as demand often exceeds availability. Staying informed about application periods and requirements is crucial.
How to Apply for Section 8 in Seattle
To apply for housing assistance in Seattle, Washington, submit an application directly to Seattle Housing Authority, the housing authority serving this area. Right now, 5 waiting lists are 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 $78,550/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 Seattle include Seattle Senior Housing Program (SSHP), Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing, Senior Housing, Seattle Senior Housing Program. 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).
Seattle, Washington Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Seattle, Washington, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Seattle-Bellevue, WA HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $78,550 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $157,100.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $33,050 | $55,000 | $84,850 |
| 2 Persons | $37,750 | $62,850 | $96,950 |
| 3 Persons | $42,450 | $70,700 | $109,050 |
| 4 Persons | $47,150 | $78,550 | $121,150 |
| 5 Persons | $50,950 | $84,850 | $130,850 |
| 6 Persons | $54,700 | $91,150 | $140,550 |
| 7 Persons | $58,500 | $97,450 | $150,250 |
| 8 Persons | $62,250 | $103,700 | $159,950 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Seattle 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 Seattle and have active housing programs.