Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Rochester, Minnesota
All waiting lists in Rochester are currently closed. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Rochester, 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 Rochester, 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 Rochester, Minnesota
Rochester, Minnesota is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Currently, all waitlists in Rochester are closed. Openings can happen with as little as 48 hours notice, so monitoring is critical. There are also 25 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Rochester include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Mainstream, Public Housing.
Open Lists Nearby
While no waitlists are open in Rochester right now, there are 25 open lists within 50 miles. Most housing authorities accept applications from non-residents, so applying in neighboring cities is a practical strategy. Scroll down to "Nearby Cities" below for options.
About Housing in Rochester, Minnesota
Rochester, Minnesota's affordable housing programs are primarily managed by the Olmsted County Housing and Redevelopment Authority (OCHRA). OCHRA operates key programs including the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV), Mainstream Voucher, and Public Housing. Currently, all three of OCHRA's primary waiting lists for these programs are closed, with no open lists available for new applications.
Eligibility for these programs depends on household income, which must meet specific federal limits. For instance, a family of four in the Rochester, MN HUD Metro FMR Area has a Very Low Income limit of $62,800 per year, as set for FY2025. Across the area, there are approximately 787 assisted housing units available. The Minnesota Housing Finance Agency also plays a role in state-level housing initiatives and resources.
Given that all waiting lists are currently closed, prospective applicants should regularly monitor OCHRA's official channels for any announcements regarding future openings. Understanding the eligibility criteria and gathering required documentation in advance can help streamline the application process once lists become available. This proactive approach is beneficial for those seeking housing assistance in Rochester.
Housing Authorities in Rochester
How to Apply for Section 8 in Rochester
To apply for housing assistance in Rochester, Minnesota, submit an application directly to Olmsted County Housing and Redevelopment Authority, the housing authority serving this area. All waitlists are currently closed, but openings happen with as little as 48 hours 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 $62,800/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 Rochester include Mainstream, 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).
Rochester, Minnesota Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Rochester, Minnesota, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Rochester, MN HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $62,800 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $125,600.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $26,400 | $44,000 | $70,350 |
| 2 Persons | $30,200 | $50,250 | $80,400 |
| 3 Persons | $33,950 | $56,550 | $90,450 |
| 4 Persons | $37,700 | $62,800 | $100,500 |
| 5 Persons | $40,750 | $67,850 | $108,550 |
| 6 Persons | $43,750 | $72,850 | $116,600 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $77,900 | $124,650 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $82,900 | $132,700 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Rochester 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 Rochester and have active housing programs.