What the Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority Does

The Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA) is a public agency that runs housing programs for low-income residents in Franklin County, Ohio. CMHA does not build or own most of the housing itself — instead, it issues vouchers that let you rent from private landlords, and it manages a smaller number of public housing units. The agency handles applications, income verification, and ongoing case management for people in its programs.

CMHA's main program is the Housing Choice Voucher program, also called Section 8. This is a federal program funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). CMHA also runs a public housing program with apartments it owns directly. Both programs serve households below certain income limits, which change each year based on the area median income.

Key Takeaways

  • CMHA runs two main programs: Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) and public housing units, both for low-income households in Franklin County.
  • The Housing Choice Voucher waiting list is typically closed because demand far exceeds available vouchers, so you cannot explore unless CMHA announces it is accepting new names.
  • Public housing has its own waiting list, which is usually open, though wait times can be several years depending on the unit type you need.
  • You must meet income limits, citizenship or legal residency requirements, and pass a background check to be considered for either program.
  • CMHA's office is located in downtown Columbus, and you can reach them by phone or in person to ask about current waiting list status.

Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) Through CMHA

The Housing Choice Voucher program is CMHA's largest program. When you receive a voucher, CMHA pays a portion of your rent directly to your landlord, and you pay the rest. The amount CMHA pays is based on your income and the local rent standard for your unit size. You choose where to live — the voucher works at any rental property whose owner agrees to participate.

The voucher waiting list has been closed for several years because the number of people waiting far exceeds the number of vouchers CMHA receives each year. CMHA occasionally opens the list for a short period, usually announced on its website and through local media. When the list opens, you can submit your name in person at the CMHA office or by mail. There is no fee to be on the waiting list.

If you are placed on the waiting list, wait times typically range from two to five years, though this varies based on household size and other factors. CMHA contacts people in the order they applied. Once you are contacted and move through the process, you will need to provide proof of income, citizenship or legal residency status, and consent to a background check.

CMHA Public Housing Units

CMHA owns and manages public housing apartments throughout Franklin County. These are separate from the voucher program. Public housing units are typically older buildings, but they are maintained by CMHA and rent is based on your income — usually 30 percent of your gross monthly income.

The public housing waiting list is usually open, meaning you can explore at any time. However, wait times can be substantial — often two to four years or longer depending on the unit size and location you need. CMHA prioritizes certain households, such as those experiencing homelessness or living in unsafe conditions, which can affect how quickly your name comes up.

To be considered for public housing, you must meet the same income and citizenship requirements as the voucher program. You will also need to provide references, employment history, and consent to a criminal background check. CMHA reviews your rental history and may deny you if there are serious issues such as eviction or property damage.

Income Limits and Who Can explore

CMHA programs are open to households earning at or below 80 percent of the area median income (AMI). The exact income limit depends on your household size and changes each year. For example, in 2024, the limit for a single person was approximately $52,000 per year, and for a family of four, approximately $74,000 per year — but these figures change annually, so you should confirm current limits with CMHA directly.

You must be a U.S. citizen or have may be able to access immigration status. CMHA will ask for proof such as a birth certificate, passport, or immigration documents. If you are not a citizen, you may still be may be able to access if you hold a green card or certain other visa categories, but CMHA staff can tell you whether your specific status qualifies.

You must also pass a background check. CMHA looks at criminal history, eviction records, and rental payment history. A criminal conviction or recent eviction does not automatically disqualify you, but serious crimes or a pattern of non-payment may. CMHA makes decisions on a case-by-case basis.

How to Contact CMHA and explore

CMHA's main office is located at 1641 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215. You can visit in person during business hours, call 614-421-6000, or check the website at www.cmha.net for current information about waiting lists and programs.

When you contact CMHA, ask whether the Housing Choice Voucher waiting list is currently open. If it is closed, ask when it is expected to open next and whether you can request to be notified. Ask about the public housing waiting list status and what unit types are available. CMHA staff can also tell you what documents you will need to bring if you decide to explore.

If you explore, bring proof of income (recent pay stubs or tax returns), proof of citizenship or legal residency, a photo ID, and proof of your current address. CMHA may ask for additional documents depending on your situation. There is no cost to explore or to be on a waiting list.

What Happens After You Are Selected from the Waiting List

Once CMHA contacts you from the waiting list, you will attend an orientation session where staff explain the program rules, your rights and responsibilities, and what to expect next. For the voucher program, you will then begin searching for a rental property. For public housing, CMHA will show you available units.

CMHA will conduct a home inspection before you move in to make sure the unit meets housing quality standards. For voucher holders, the landlord's property must pass this inspection. For public housing residents, CMHA inspects its own units. If the unit does not pass, repairs must be made before you can move in.

Once you move in, you will pay rent to your landlord (or CMHA if you are in public housing) and CMHA will pay its portion directly. You are responsible for utilities unless they are included in your lease. CMHA conducts periodic inspections and reviews your income annually to recalculate your rent contribution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a fee to explore or be on the waiting list?

No. CMHA does not charge any fee to explore, to be on a waiting list, or to participate in its programs. If someone asks you for money to help you get on a waiting list or to move up the list faster, that is a scam.

What if I have a criminal record or an eviction?

CMHA reviews each case individually. A criminal conviction or eviction does not automatically disqualify you. CMHA considers how long ago the incident occurred, what the offense was, and your circumstances since then. Contact CMHA directly to discuss your situation before you explore.

How long does it take to hear back after I explore?

If you are explore to be placed on a waiting list, CMHA will confirm your process within a few days. Wait times on the list itself are typically two to five years for vouchers and two to four years for public housing, depending on demand and your household size.

Can I use a voucher to rent anywhere in Ohio?

No. A CMHA voucher works only in Franklin County and a few surrounding counties that have agreements with CMHA. If you want to move outside this area, you would need to contact the housing authority in your new location to see if you can transfer your voucher.

What if I lose my job or my income changes?

Tell CMHA when ready. Your rent contribution is based on your income, so if your income drops, your rent may decrease. If your income increases significantly, your rent will increase. CMHA recalculates your rent annually, but you should report major changes right away.