There are over 3,300 Public Housing Authorities across the United States, and each one manages its own Section 8 waiting list independently. Some lists are open, some are closed, and some use a lottery. This tracker helps you find PHAs by state, see their current status, and get the contact information you need to apply. The best strategy is to apply to every open list you can — there's no limit on how many you can join.
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How to Maximize Your Chances
1Apply everywhere. There is no rule limiting how many waiting lists you can join. Apply to every PHA with an open list — even in other states. You can use portability to move your voucher later.
2Check back regularly. Waiting lists open and close without much notice. A list that's closed today might open next week. Bookmark this page and check monthly.
3Look at smaller PHAs. Everyone applies to the big-city housing authorities. Smaller, rural PHAs often have shorter waits and open lists. The voucher is portable — you don't have to live in the PHA's area.
4Claim your preferences. Many PHAs give priority to applicants who are homeless, veterans, disabled, elderly, fleeing domestic violence, or paying more than 50% of income toward rent. Ask about preferences when you apply.
5Keep your information updated. If your address, phone number, or household composition changes, notify every PHA you've applied to. Outdated contact information is one of the top reasons people lose their place on the list.
6Respond to all mail from PHAs. When a PHA sends you a letter — whether it's asking you to confirm your interest or notifying you about a briefing — respond immediately. Missing a deadline can remove you from the list.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find open Section 8 waiting lists near me?
Use the tracker above to search by state. You can also call your local Public Housing Authority (PHA) directly, check their website, or call 211 for local housing assistance information. Many PHAs open their waiting lists only periodically, so check back frequently. You can apply to PHAs anywhere in the country — not just where you live.
How long is the Section 8 waiting list?
Wait times vary dramatically by location. In high-demand cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, waits can exceed 5–10 years. In smaller cities and rural areas, waits may be 1–3 years. Some PHAs in less populated states have shorter waits or open lists. The best strategy is to apply to multiple PHAs simultaneously.
Can I apply for Section 8 in multiple states?
Yes. There is no rule against applying to multiple PHAs, even in different states. This is one of the best strategies for getting a voucher faster. You can apply anywhere that has an open waiting list, regardless of where you currently live. Once you receive a voucher, you can use portability to move it to a different area.
How often do Section 8 waiting lists open?
It varies by PHA. Some open their lists once a year for a few days or weeks. Some use a lottery system where you apply during a window and names are drawn randomly. Others keep their lists open until further notice. There is no set schedule — each PHA decides independently. In the last three years, the average PHA kept its waiting list open for about 714 days total.
What is a housing voucher lottery?
Some PHAs use a lottery instead of a first-come-first-served waiting list. During an application window (often a few days to a few weeks), anyone can apply. After the window closes, the PHA randomly selects a set number of applications to place on the waiting list. This means you don't need to rush to apply the moment the list opens — everyone who applies during the window has an equal chance.
Is this data updated in real time?
No — this tracker is updated periodically but not in real time. Waiting list statuses can change at any time. Always verify directly with the PHA before making plans. The phone numbers and websites listed here will connect you to the most current information. If you find that a status has changed, let us know and we'll update it.