Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Tacoma, Washington
There are 5 open waiting lists in the Tacoma area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Tacoma, 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 Tacoma, 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 Tacoma, Washington
Tacoma, 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 Tacoma area. There are also 16 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Tacoma include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing. Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: HCV (1 open), PBV (1 open), Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Housing Authority of City of Tacoma opened its Family Property waitlist on Nov 14, 2024.
About Housing in Tacoma, Washington
For individuals and families seeking affordable housing assistance in Tacoma, Washington, the primary local agency serving the area is the Housing Authority of City of Tacoma. This agency manages various programs designed to help residents secure stable housing. Currently, there are 5 open waiting lists available for application, with no closed lists at this time. Across the Tacoma area, approximately 5,429 assisted housing units contribute to the local affordable housing stock.
Programs offered through the Housing Authority of City of Tacoma include Family Property, Housing Choice Voucher (HCV), Project-Based Voucher (PBV), Public Housing, and Senior/Disabled Property. Each of these program types currently has an open waiting list, providing multiple pathways for eligible applicants. When considering eligibility, it's important to note income limits. For instance, a family of four in the Tacoma, WA HUD Metro FMR Area must have an annual income no higher than $60,400 to qualify as Very Low Income for fiscal year 2025 assistance. The Washington State Department of Commerce also plays a role in state-level housing initiatives.
How to Apply for Section 8 in Tacoma
To apply for housing assistance in Tacoma, Washington, submit an application directly to Housing Authority of City of Tacoma, 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 $60,400/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 Tacoma include Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Senior/Disabled Property, Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Family Property. 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).
Tacoma, Washington Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Tacoma, Washington, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Tacoma, WA HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $60,400 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $120,800.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $25,400 | $42,300 | $67,700 |
| 2 Persons | $29,000 | $48,350 | $77,350 |
| 3 Persons | $32,650 | $54,400 | $87,000 |
| 4 Persons | $36,250 | $60,400 | $96,650 |
| 5 Persons | $39,150 | $65,250 | $104,400 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $70,100 | $112,150 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $74,900 | $119,850 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $79,750 | $127,600 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Tacoma 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 Tacoma and have active housing programs.