Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Mason City, Iowa
There are 2 open waiting lists in the Mason City area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 2 housing authorities serving Mason City, 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 Mason City, 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 Mason City, Iowa
Mason City, Iowa is served by 2 housing authorities offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 2 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Mason City area. There are also 8 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Mason City include Public Housing, VASH, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV). Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: Public Housing (1 open), VASH (1 open).
Latest Opening
Mason City Housing Authority opened its Public Housing waitlist .
About Housing in Mason City, Iowa
Mason City, Iowa, provides affordable housing assistance through two main housing authorities: the Mason City Housing Authority and the North Iowa Regional Housing Authority. These agencies administer various programs to support low-income individuals and families. The area currently has approximately 1,057 assisted housing units available.
Understanding the current status of waiting lists is crucial. There are currently 2 open waiting lists and 3 closed lists in the Mason City area. For the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, both of its lists are currently closed. Public Housing has two lists, with one currently open for applications. The Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH) program has one list, which is also open. Income eligibility is a key factor; for a family of four in Cerro Gordo County, the Very Low Income limit for FY2025 is $47,150 per year. The Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) oversees housing initiatives across the state.
Applicants are encouraged to directly contact the Mason City Housing Authority and the North Iowa Regional Housing Authority for the most current information regarding program availability, application procedures, and specific eligibility requirements. Due to demand, waiting lists can open and close frequently, so regular checks are recommended for those seeking assistance.
How to Apply for Section 8 in Mason City
To apply for housing assistance in Mason City, Iowa, submit an application directly to one of the 2 housing authorities serving the Mason City area (listed above). Right now, 2 waiting lists are 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 $47,150/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 Mason City include Public Housing, VASH, 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).
Mason City, Iowa Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Mason City, Iowa, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Cerro Gordo County, IA area. A family of four must earn less than $47,150 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $94,300.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $19,850 | $33,050 | $52,850 |
| 2 Persons | $22,650 | $37,750 | $60,400 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $42,450 | $67,950 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $47,150 | $75,450 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $50,950 | $81,500 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $54,700 | $87,550 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $58,500 | $93,600 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $62,250 | $99,600 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Mason City 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 Mason City and have active housing programs.