What is the Section 8 income limit in Massachusetts?

Section 8 eligibility in Massachusetts is based on 50% of the area median income (AMI). For a family of 4, the approximate statewide limit is $52,000/year. Actual limits vary by county and metro area — check with your local Public Housing Authority for exact amounts.

How long is the Section 8 waitlist in Massachusetts?

Typical Section 8 waitlist in Massachusetts is 3-8 years. Wait times vary significantly by location — urban areas tend to have longer waits. Some PHAs close their waitlist periodically when it gets too long. Apply to multiple PHAs in your area to improve your chances.

Typical wait: 3-8 years

Do I Qualify for Section 8 in Massachusetts?

Q: How do I apply for Section 8 in Massachusetts?

Apply through your local Public Housing Authority (PHA). Apply through your local PHA. Massachusetts has some of the longest waitlists. Visit https://www.mass.gov/section-8-housing-choice-voucher-program or call 1-617-573-1500.

2026 income limits, waitlist information, and how to apply

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers in Massachusetts help families pay rent. Approximate income limit for a family of 4: $52,000/year (50% of area median income). Typical waitlist: 3-8 years. You pay 30% of your income; the voucher covers the rest.

~Income limit (fam. of 4)

$52,000/yr

You pay

30% of income

Typical wait

3-8 years

No time limit

Keep as long as eligible

Could Your Family Get Section 8 in Massachusetts?

Quick check using approximate statewide limits. Actual limits vary by county — confirm with your local PHA.

Gross annual household income

Family of 4 limit: $52,000/yr
Actual limits vary by county/metro area

Enter your annual income to check.

How to Apply for Section 8 in Massachusetts

Apply through your local PHA. Massachusetts has some of the longest waitlists.

Find your local PHA

Each county or metro area has its own Public Housing Authority with a separate waitlist. Apply to multiple PHAs to improve your chances.

Join the waitlist

Submit a pre-application when the waitlist is open. You'll need proof of identity, income, and household composition. Some PHAs accept online applications.

Wait for your turn

Typical wait in Massachusetts: 3-8 years. Keep your contact information updated — PHAs remove applicants who don't respond to notices.

Receive and use your voucher

Once selected, you have 60-120 days to find housing. The PHA inspects the unit. You pay 30% of your income; the voucher covers the rest up to the payment standard.

Massachusetts DHCD → Call 1-617-573-1500