Detroit Lakes, MN

Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota

There are 3 open waiting lists in the Detroit Lakes area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 2 housing authorities serving Detroit Lakes, 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 Detroit Lakes, 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.

2
Agencies
3
Open Now
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Closed

Affordable Housing in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota

Detroit Lakes, Minnesota is served by 2 housing authorities offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 3 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Detroit Lakes area. There are also 15 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.

Housing programs available in Detroit Lakes include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV). Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: Public Housing (2 open), HCV (1 open).

Latest Opening

Housing and Redevelopment Authority of Detroit Lakes opened its HCV waitlist .

About Housing in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota

Seeking affordable housing in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota? The area is primarily served by two key housing authorities: the Housing and Redevelopment Authority of Detroit Lakes and the Becker County Economic Development Authority. These agencies administer vital programs designed to assist low-income individuals and families. Currently, there are 3 open waiting lists for affordable housing assistance in the area, while 1 list is closed. Specifically, the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program has 1 open list, and Public Housing programs have 2 open lists available for applicants.

To qualify for most programs, applicants must meet specific income criteria. For example, a family of four considered Very Low Income in the Becker County area for Fiscal Year 2025 would have an income limit of $48,750 per year. It's important to note that income limits vary based on household size and specific program guidelines. Across Detroit Lakes, there are approximately 364 assisted housing units available through these programs. The Minnesota Housing Finance Agency also plays a role in state-level housing initiatives.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to directly contact the Housing and Redevelopment Authority of Detroit Lakes and the Becker County Economic Development Authority for the most up-to-date information on eligibility, application procedures, and current waiting list statuses. Gathering all necessary documents in advance can help streamline the application process.

How to Apply for Section 8 in Detroit Lakes

To apply for housing assistance in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, submit an application directly to one of the 2 housing authorities serving the Detroit Lakes area (listed above). Right now, 3 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 $48,750/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 Detroit Lakes include Public Housing, 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).

Detroit Lakes, Minnesota Section 8 Income Limits

To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Becker County, MN area. A family of four must earn less than $48,750 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $97,500.

Household Size Extremely Low
30% AMI
Very Low
50% AMI
Low Income
80% AMI
1 Person $20,500 $34,150 $54,600
2 Persons $23,400 $39,000 $62,400
3 Persons $26,650 $43,900 $70,200
4 Persons $32,150 $48,750 $78,000
5 Persons $37,650 $52,650 $84,250
6 Persons $43,150 $56,550 $90,500
7 Persons $48,650 $60,450 $96,750
8 Persons $54,150 $64,350 $103,000
Source: HUD FY 2025 Income Limits Area Median Income: $97,500 Effective April 1, 2025
How do income limits affect my eligibility?

Housing authorities in Detroit Lakes 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there open Section 8 waiting lists in Detroit Lakes?
Yes — there are currently 3 open waiting lists in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota. Click into any housing authority above marked "Open" for application details and official portal links.
Can I apply for Section 8 in Detroit Lakes if I don't live there?
In most cases, yes. While some PHAs give preference to local residents, there is no federal rule requiring you to live in a city to apply for its waiting list. Many applicants apply to housing authorities in multiple cities and states simultaneously to increase their chances of receiving assistance.
How long is the wait for Section 8 in Detroit Lakes?
Wait times vary depending on demand, funding, and your priority status. National averages range from 6 months to 5+ years. Detroit Lakes wait times depend on the specific housing authority and program type. Contact the PHA directly for current estimates, and consider applying to multiple PHAs to improve your chances.
All housing authorities in Minnesota