Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Decorah, Iowa
There is 1 open waiting list in the Decorah area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Decorah, Iowa 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 Decorah, 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 Decorah, Iowa
Decorah, Iowa is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 1 waiting list is accepting applications in the Decorah area. There are also 9 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Decorah include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing. Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: HCV (1 open).
Latest Opening
Upper Explorerland Regional Housing Authority opened its HCV waitlist on Jul 15, 2024.
About Housing in Decorah, Iowa
Seeking affordable housing in Decorah, Iowa involves understanding the local housing landscape and available programs. The primary housing authority serving Decorah is the Upper Explorerland Regional Housing Authority (UERHA). Currently, UERHA manages one open waiting list for the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, while its Public Housing program waiting list is closed. These programs collectively contribute to approximately 499 assisted housing units available in the area.
Eligibility for programs like the Housing Choice Voucher often depends on income. For instance, a family of four in Winneshiek County is considered Very Low Income if their household income is $51,050 per year or less, based on FY2025 guidelines. The Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) is the state housing agency that oversees many of these affordable housing initiatives across Iowa.
To apply for housing assistance, it is crucial to contact Upper Explorerland Regional Housing Authority directly for the most current information regarding their open waiting lists and application procedures. Regularly checking for updates is advised, as waiting list statuses can change. Understanding these details can help you navigate the process for affordable housing options in Decorah.
Housing Authorities in Decorah
How to Apply for Section 8 in Decorah
To apply for housing assistance in Decorah, Iowa, submit an application directly to Upper Explorerland Regional Housing Authority, the housing authority serving this area. Right now, 1 waiting list is accepting applications — apply as soon as possible, as open enrollment periods can close with short 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 $51,050/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 Decorah include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), 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).
Decorah, Iowa Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Decorah, Iowa, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Winneshiek County, IA area. A family of four must earn less than $51,050 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $104,900.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $21,500 | $35,750 | $57,200 |
| 2 Persons | $24,550 | $40,850 | $65,400 |
| 3 Persons | $27,600 | $45,950 | $73,550 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $51,050 | $81,700 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $55,150 | $88,250 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $59,250 | $94,800 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $63,350 | $101,350 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $67,400 | $107,850 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Decorah 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 Decorah and have active housing programs.