Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Altoona, Wisconsin
There are 9 open waiting lists in the Altoona area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 2 housing authorities serving Altoona, Wisconsin 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 Altoona, 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 Altoona, Wisconsin
Altoona, Wisconsin is served by 2 housing authorities offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 9 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Altoona area. There are also 31 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Altoona include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Mainstream. Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: HCV (2 open), Public Housing (2 open), PBV (1 open), Mainstream (1 open).
Latest Opening
Eau Claire County Housing Authority opened its Public Housing waitlist on Mar 28, 2026.
About Housing in Altoona, Wisconsin
For individuals and families seeking affordable housing assistance in Altoona, Wisconsin, resources are available through two primary housing authorities: the Eau Claire County Housing Authority and the Altoona Housing Authority. These agencies manage various programs designed to help eligible residents. Currently, there are 9 active waiting lists open for application, while 1 list is presently closed.
Programs offered include Project-Based Vouchers (with 1 out of 2 lists currently open), Housing Choice Vouchers (2 lists open), Public Housing (2 lists open), Senior Housing (1 list open), Mainstream Vouchers (1 list open), and two other distinct specialized housing programs (both with open lists). Across the Altoona area, there are approximately 419 assisted housing units available.
Eligibility for many programs is based on income. For example, the Very Low Income limit for a family of four in the Eau Claire, WI MSA area for Fiscal Year 2025 is $51,600 annually. Potential applicants should review specific program requirements directly with the housing authorities for the best chance of successful application. The Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) serves as the state's housing agency, offering further information and support.
How to Apply for Section 8 in Altoona
To apply for housing assistance in Altoona, Wisconsin, submit an application directly to one of the 2 housing authorities serving the Altoona area (listed above). Right now, 9 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 $51,600/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 Altoona include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Senior Housing, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Mainstream, Public Housing, Other, other. 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).
Altoona, Wisconsin Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Altoona, Wisconsin, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Eau Claire, WI MSA area. A family of four must earn less than $51,600 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $103,200.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $21,700 | $36,150 | $57,800 |
| 2 Persons | $24,800 | $41,300 | $66,050 |
| 3 Persons | $27,900 | $46,450 | $74,300 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $51,600 | $82,550 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $55,750 | $89,200 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $59,900 | $95,800 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $64,000 | $102,400 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $68,150 | $109,000 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Altoona 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 Altoona and have active housing programs.