Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Decatur, Illinois
All waiting lists in Decatur are currently closed. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Decatur, Illinois and updates statuses nightly. Below you will find every PHA in the area with current waitlist status, program types, and direct application links.
If no lists are currently open in Decatur, we recommend applying to nearby cities as well. There is no limit to the number of waiting lists you can join, and many housing authorities accept applications from non-residents.
Affordable Housing in Decatur, Illinois
Decatur, Illinois is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Currently, all waitlists in Decatur are closed. Openings can happen with as little as 48 hours notice, so monitoring is critical. There are also 10 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Decatur include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing, RAD.
Open Lists Nearby
While no waitlists are open in Decatur right now, there are 10 open lists within 50 miles. Most housing authorities accept applications from non-residents, so applying in neighboring cities is a practical strategy. Scroll down to "Nearby Cities" below for options.
About Housing in Decatur, Illinois
For individuals and families seeking affordable housing options in Decatur, Illinois, assistance is primarily managed by the Decatur Housing Authority. It is important to note that currently, all five of their housing assistance waiting lists are closed. These lists include programs such as Housing Choice Voucher (HCV), Project-Based Rental Assistance (PBRA), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing, and the Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) program. While no lists are open at this time, the area collectively provides approximately 2,231 assisted housing units.
Eligibility for these programs typically involves income criteria. For example, a family of four in the Decatur, IL MSA area must meet the Very Low Income limit, which is established at $45,800 per year for FY2025. The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) serves as the state housing agency, supporting affordable housing initiatives across Illinois. Prospective applicants should regularly check for announcements from the Decatur Housing Authority regarding any future waiting list openings and familiarize themselves with specific program requirements to prepare for when opportunities arise.
Housing Authorities in Decatur
How to Apply for Section 8 in Decatur
To apply for housing assistance in Decatur, Illinois, submit an application directly to Decatur Housing Authority, the housing authority serving this area. All waitlists are currently closed, but openings happen with as little as 48 hours notice. Applications are always free — never pay anyone to apply on your behalf.
Before applying, gather the following documents for all household members: government-issued photo ID, Social Security cards, birth certificates for minors, proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, benefit statements), and proof of current address. For a family of four in this area, income must be below $45,800/year (Very Low Income threshold) to qualify for most programs. Having these ready before a waitlist opens can be the difference between getting on the list and missing the window.
Housing programs available in Decatur include Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), RAD, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), PBRA, Public Housing. Applying to multiple program types simultaneously improves your chances of receiving assistance. After submitting, you will be placed on the waiting list based on the date of your application and any applicable preferences (veterans, elderly, disabled, working families, or local residents).
Decatur, Illinois Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Decatur, Illinois, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Decatur, IL MSA area. A family of four must earn less than $45,800 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $91,600.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $19,250 | $32,100 | $51,350 |
| 2 Persons | $22,000 | $36,650 | $58,650 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $41,250 | $66,000 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $45,800 | $73,300 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $49,500 | $79,200 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $53,150 | $85,050 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $56,800 | $90,900 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $60,500 | $96,800 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Decatur use these income limits to determine who qualifies for rental assistance. Your total household income before taxes is compared against the limit for your household size.
Very Low Income (50% AMI) — Most Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers and Public Housing programs require your income to be at or below this level. This is the primary eligibility threshold.
Extremely Low Income (30% AMI) — Households at this level often receive priority on waiting lists. By law, housing authorities must allocate a portion of vouchers to extremely low-income families.
Low Income (80% AMI) — Some programs, including Project-Based Vouchers and locally funded initiatives, accept applicants up to this threshold. Contact individual housing authorities below for their specific requirements.
Nearby Cities with Housing Authorities
Applying to nearby cities increases your chances of receiving assistance sooner. These cities are within 75 miles of Decatur and have active housing programs.