Section 8 Income Limits

Income limits define the maximum household income for Section 8 eligibility. HUD publishes limits annually for each area based on Area Median Income (AMI).

Section 8 income limits are the maximum household income thresholds that determine eligibility for the Housing Choice Voucher program. HUD publishes income limits annually for every metropolitan area and non-metropolitan county, adjusted for household size. These limits are derived from the Area Median Income (AMI) for each geography.

HUD defines three income limit categories: Extremely Low Income (30% of AMI or the federal poverty level, whichever is higher), Very Low Income (50% of AMI), and Low Income (80% of AMI). For the Section 8 voucher program, applicants must generally earn below the Very Low Income limit (50% AMI). By law, at least 75% of new admissions must be at or below the Extremely Low Income limit (30% AMI).

Income limits vary dramatically by location because they are based on local median incomes. For example, the 50% AMI limit for a family of four might be $45,000 in a rural area but over $70,000 in a high-cost metro. This ensures the program serves the relatively poorest households in each community.

Income limits also increase with household size — a larger family has a higher income limit than a smaller one. HUD provides limits for households of 1-8 persons, with adjustments available for even larger families. These limits interact with FMR data to shape the overall Section 8 landscape in each area. Explore FMR data for your area at FMR8.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Section 8 income limits?

Section 8 income limits are maximum household income thresholds set by HUD for each area. Applicants must generally earn below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI). At least 75% of new admissions must be extremely low income (at or below 30% AMI). Limits vary by location and household size.

Do income limits change each year?

Yes, HUD updates income limits annually based on new American Community Survey data and area median income calculations. Changes reflect local economic conditions and may increase or decrease from year to year.

Related Terms

• Section 8 Housing — Section 8 is a federal housing assistance program that provides rental subsidies to low-income families, the elderly, an...
• Area Median Income (AMI) — Area Median Income is the midpoint household income for a specific geographic area. HUD uses AMI to determine eligibilit...
• Public Housing Authority (PHA) — A Public Housing Authority is a local government agency that administers the Section 8 voucher program, manages waiting ...
• Section 8 Waiting List — The Section 8 waiting list is a queue of eligible applicants waiting to receive a Housing Choice Voucher. Wait times can...
• Total Tenant Payment (TTP) — The Total Tenant Payment is the amount a Section 8 household must contribute toward rent and utilities each month, gener...