The Alaska Guide to Section 8 Housing
Alaska’s housing affordability challenges have reached critical levels, with over 27% of renter households cost-burdened in 2025, according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition. Limited land availability, extreme climatic conditions, and high transportation costs in remote regions exacerbate the state’s housing crisis. For low-income families and individuals, the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program provides vital support by subsidizing rent in safe and decent housing.
This guide offers a comprehensive look at Section 8 in Alaska, covering eligibility, application steps, and the program’s role in fostering housing stability.
What Is Section 8 Housing in Alaska
Section 8 in Alaska helps low-income households access affordable rental housing in the private market. Administered by the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC) in partnership with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the program provides vouchers that cover a portion of rent. Eligible participants can use these vouchers for single-family homes, apartments, or townhouses that meet HUD’s health and safety standards.
Landlords who participate in the program benefit from guaranteed rental payments, encouraging greater participation in areas with limited housing options.
What Is the Most Section 8 Will Pay in Alaska?
The maximum subsidy provided by Section 8 in Alaska is determined by Fair Market Rent (FMR), which reflects local rental costs. HUD updates these figures annually. In 2025, the FMR for a 2-bedroom unit is as follows:
Fair Market Rent
The HUD Section 8 program pays rents for low-income households directly to private landlords. The Housing Authority of Alaska will pay about 70% of a tenant’s rent, while the tenant will pay the other 30%. Fair Market Rents generally determine the maximum rent that a Section 8 landlord will be allowed to charge their residents. The table below shows current fair market rents for Alaska.
Participants typically pay 30% of their adjusted gross income toward rent, with the voucher covering the remaining amount up to the payment standard. Families may choose housing with higher rents, but they are responsible for any excess costs beyond the voucher coverage.
What Are the Alaska Section 8 Housing Requirements?
- Eligibility for Section 8 in Alaska is based on several factors:
- Income Limits: Applicants must have household incomes below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI). For example, in Anchorage, the 2025 income limit for a family of four is $64,000.
- Citizenship or Immigration Status: Applicants must provide documentation proving U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status.
- Background Checks: All adult household members undergo background checks. Certain criminal convictions may disqualify applicants.
- Family Composition: Household size determines the voucher amount and eligible unit size.
Meeting these requirements does not guarantee immediate assistance, as waiting lists often delay access to the program.
What Are the Income Limits for Housing Assistance Programs in Alaska?
HUD’s income limits for Alaska are updated annually and vary by location and household size. In 2025, the income limits for 50% of AMI are as follows:
Income Limit
Income Limits are maximum income limits allowed based on household size. The following limits were established by HUD for low income households to be eligible for housing assistance in Alaska for 2024.
Higher limits apply in high-cost areas like Juneau, where the AMI is significantly elevated compared to rural regions.
How Long Does It Take to Get Approved for Section 8 in Alaska?
Approval times vary depending on local demand and housing authority resources. In Anchorage and Fairbanks, waiting lists often exceed 18 months due to high demand. Shorter wait times for rural areas may be available but are offset by limited housing options.
In order to make things as smooth as possible, applicants are encouraged to submit complete and accurate applications, respond promptly to additional documentation requests, and regularly check the status of their applications with the AHFC.
How To Qualify for Section 8 in Alaska
To qualify for Section 8, applicants must:
- Meet HUD’s income limits based on household size and location.
- Provide proof of U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status.
- Pass background checks for all adult household members.
- Demonstrate compliance with program rules, including accurate reporting of income and household changes.
Priority may be given to applicants with disabilities, seniors, or those experiencing homelessness.
How to Apply for Section 8 Housing in Alaska
To apply for housing assistance, you must complete each of the following steps:
1. Gather Required Documents
Collect necessary documents, such as proof of income, identification and other relevant paperwork. Make sure you have everything you need to apply for Section 8 in Alaska.
2. Contact Local Housing Authority
Reach out to your local PHA for an application and assistance. You can find their contact information online or through local government offices.
3. Submit Application
Complete the application and submit it along with all the required documents. Ensure that the information provided is accurate and up-to-date.
4. Attend an Interview
If required, attend an interview with the PHA. Be prepared to discuss your financial situation and provide any additional information they may need.
5. Wait for Notification
After submitting your application, be patient. The processing time may vary, and you will get notified about the status of your application.
If approved, you will receive a housing voucher to use to find suitable housing in the private rental market.
Can I Transfer My Section 8 Voucher to Alaska?
If you are currently on Section 8 in Alaska recipients and want to move to Alaska, you can transfer your voucher and use it. To begin the process, contact your current housing authority and inform them of your plans to relocate. Then request the necessary forms that you need to request the transfer. Once complete, submit these documents promptly to avoid any delays.
Next, reach out to the public housing authority where you are going to notify them of your intent to move. Familiarize yourself with Alaska's housing policies and ensure your voucher is valid in the state. The PHA will guide you through the local requirements and assist in finding suitable housing options.
Can I Buy a House With a Section 8 Voucher in Alaska?
While Section 8 in Alaska primarily subsidizes rent payments, it does offer a homeownership option through the Housing Choice Voucher Homeownership Program. This program enables eligible participants to use their vouchers towards homeownership expenses, including mortgage payments, property taxes and utility bills. However, specific requirements and regulations vary by location and may involve additional steps, such as homeownership counseling and meeting income guidelines.
While available nationwide, not all public housing authorities offer the HCVHP program. Each PHA has the discretion to decide whether to implement it. Therefore, if you’re interested in this homeownership program, check with your local office to see if it’s available in your area.
What Are the Public Housing Authorities in Alaska?
Public Housing Authorities are local government agencies tasked with administering Section 8 in Alaska and other programs funded by HUD to aid in accessing affordable housing. These agencies, operating at municipal or regional levels, serve specific communities or geographic areas. Among them, the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation stands out as the state's housing finance agency. While not a conventional PHA, it plays a big role in financing and developing affordable housing initiatives statewide by collaborating with local governments, nonprofit organizations and private developers to provide assistance.
In addition to AHFC, various PHAs, such as the Anchorage Housing Authority and the Juneau Housing Trust, manage public housing developments, administer rental assistance programs, and provide supportive services to residents in need. The following table is a list of PHAs serving Alaska.
HUD Housing Authorities Serving Alaska
Alaska Housing Finance Corporation
Housing AuthorityThere Are Currently 4857 Units Available in the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation. These Low-income...
Alaska Housing Finance Corporation
Housing AuthorityThere Are Currently 1237 Units Available in the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation. These Low-income...
Alaska Waiting List for Section 8 Housing
High demand often results in waiting lists for Section 8 housing. In Anchorage, the waiting list is estimated to exceed 24 months. For other areas including Bethel and Nome, there are shorter lists but fewer housing options.
Applicants can increase their chances by applying to multiple PHAs or seeking housing in regions with shorter wait times.
Is Emergency Housing Assistance Available in Alaska?
HUD provides emergency housing assistance in Alaska to help those facing homelessness. This aid includes programs for temporary shelter and transitioning to stable housing situations. One such program, the Emergency Solutions Grants, distributes funds through the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation to support emergency shelters, rapid rehousing and homelessness prevention efforts, working with local service providers to address community needs.
Individuals and families can seek guidance and support from local PHAs to access available resources. The following table shows a list of HUD emergency assistance programs available in Alaska.
Emergency Rental Assistance Serving Alaska
Alaska Housing Relief
Program Type: State
Details: Offers emergency rental assistance, covid relief, utility assistance and more
Section 8: a Vital Resouce in Alaska
Section 8 in Alaska provides critical support for families navigating the state’s challenging housing market. By subsidizing rent and ensuring access to safe housing, the program helps participants achieve stability and security.
For more information about Section 8 and other affordable housing resources, visit the HUD Housing Choice Voucher Program or explore additional resources at HUD Housing Network.
