Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Brainerd, Minnesota
There are 2 open waiting lists in the Brainerd area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Brainerd, Minnesota 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 Brainerd, 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 Brainerd, Minnesota
Brainerd, Minnesota is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 2 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Brainerd area. There are also 20 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Brainerd include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing. Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: HCV (1 open), Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Housing and Redevelopment Authority in and for the City of Brainerd opened its HCV waitlist on Feb 3, 2020.
About Housing in Brainerd, Minnesota
Brainerd, Minnesota offers affordable housing opportunities primarily through the Housing and Redevelopment Authority in and for the City of Brainerd. This local housing authority manages programs designed to assist low-income individuals and families. Currently, there are two open waiting lists in Brainerd: one for the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program and another for Public Housing. There are no closed waiting lists at this time. Approximately 528 assisted housing units are available in the area, contributing to the community's affordable housing stock.
Eligibility for these vital housing programs is generally based on household income and size. For example, in Crow Wing County for Fiscal Year 2025, a family of four is considered Very Low Income if their annual household income is at or below $50,000. It is important for prospective applicants to contact the Housing and Redevelopment Authority in and for the City of Brainerd directly for the most current eligibility requirements and specific application procedures. The Minnesota Housing Finance Agency also serves as a statewide resource for broader housing affordability information.
Housing Authorities in Brainerd
How to Apply for Section 8 in Brainerd
To apply for housing assistance in Brainerd, Minnesota, submit an application directly to Housing and Redevelopment Authority in and for the City of Brainerd, the housing authority serving this area. 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 $50,000/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 Brainerd 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).
Brainerd, Minnesota Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Brainerd, Minnesota, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Crow Wing County, MN area. A family of four must earn less than $50,000 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $106,500.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $21,000 | $35,000 | $56,000 |
| 2 Persons | $24,000 | $40,000 | $64,000 |
| 3 Persons | $27,000 | $45,000 | $72,000 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $50,000 | $80,000 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $54,000 | $86,400 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $58,000 | $92,800 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $62,000 | $99,200 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $66,000 | $105,600 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Brainerd 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 Brainerd and have active housing programs.