Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Des Moines, Iowa
There is 1 open waiting list in the Des Moines area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Des Moines, 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 Des Moines, 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 Des Moines, Iowa
Des Moines, 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 Des Moines area. There are also 10 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Des Moines include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Mainstream. Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Des Moines Municipal Housing Agency opened its Public Housing waitlist .
About Housing in Des Moines, Iowa
Seeking affordable housing in Des Moines, Iowa involves navigating resources primarily offered by the Des Moines Municipal Housing Agency (DMHMA). This agency serves the area, managing various housing assistance programs. Currently, all three waiting lists for the DMHMA are closed, with zero lists open for applications. These programs include the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, the Mainstream program, and Public Housing. Across the Des Moines area, there are approximately 4,112 assisted housing units available.
Eligibility for these programs is typically based on income and family size. For example, a family of four must generally not exceed a Very Low Income limit of $57,250 per year in the Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA HUD Metro FMR Area for FY2025. This figure can vary based on specific program guidelines and updates. While waiting lists are presently closed, it is advisable for those seeking assistance to regularly check the DMHMA's official announcements for any changes in list status. The Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) also serves as the state housing agency, providing broader resources and information on housing programs within Iowa.
Housing Authorities in Des Moines
How to Apply for Section 8 in Des Moines
To apply for housing assistance in Des Moines, Iowa, submit an application directly to Des Moines Municipal Housing Agency, 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 $57,250/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 Des Moines include Public Housing, Mainstream, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV). 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).
Des Moines, Iowa Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Des Moines, Iowa, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $57,250 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $114,500.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $24,050 | $40,100 | $64,150 |
| 2 Persons | $27,500 | $45,800 | $73,300 |
| 3 Persons | $30,950 | $51,550 | $82,450 |
| 4 Persons | $34,350 | $57,250 | $91,600 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $61,850 | $98,950 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $66,450 | $106,300 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $71,000 | $113,600 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $75,600 | $120,950 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Des Moines 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 Des Moines and have active housing programs.