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Finding an affordable place or low income apartments to live in Denver can be a challenge. The dream of a comfortable home can seem distant for those with financial limitations. Fortunately, Denver offers various programs and resources to help you find low-income housing. This article will guide you through understanding your options, finding available apartments, navigating the application process, and accessing helpful resources in Denver.
What Qualifies as Low Income Housing?
Low-income housing eligibility is often based on the Area Median Income (AMI). The AMI is the midpoint of incomes in a specific area. Housing programs use percentages of the AMI to determine who qualifies for assistance. For example, housing might be affordable for households earning 30%, 50%, or 60% of the AMI. Ideally, affordable rent should be no more than 30% of your monthly income. This ensures housing costs don't create a financial burden. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) sets these income guidelines for many affordable housing programs. Understanding AMI is key to finding the right housing options.
Different Types of Affordable Housing Programs in Denver
Denver provides several types of affordable housing programs to meet different needs:
Denver Housing Authority Properties
The Denver Housing Authority manages many affordable housing properties throughout the city, catering to various needs.
You can find contact information for these properties on the DHA website.
Income-Restricted Apartments in Central Park
The Central Park neighborhood has several affordable rental communities for households earning up to 60% of the AMI, with some units for those earning 30% and below.
Other Affordable Rental Communities in Denver
Numerous other apartment complexes throughout Denver offer affordable housing.
Online portals like Zillow , Trulia , and Apartments.com also list low-income rentals in Denver.
General HUD Requirements
Most low-income housing programs in Denver follow basic HUD eligibility rules. These generally include:
Specific Income Limits Based on Household Size
Income limits are crucial for low-income housing eligibility. These limits depend on the AMI for Denver County and the size of your household. Here are the 2024 HUD income limits for Denver County :
| Household Size | Very Low-Income Limit (50% AMI) | Extremely Low-Income Limit (30% AMI) | Low Income Limit (80% AMI) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $45,650 | $27,400 | $71,900 |
| 2 People | $52,200 | $31,300 | $82,150 |
| 3 People | $58,700 | $35,200 | $92,400 |
| 4 People | $65,200 | $39,100 | $102,650 |
| 5 People | $70,450 | $42,250 | $110,900 |
| 6 People | $75,650 | $45,400 | $119,100 |
| 7 People | $80,850 | $48,500 | $127,300 |
| 8 People | $86,100 | $52,720 | $135,500 |
Remember that specific properties may have different income limits. Always check the requirements for the properties you are interested in
Additional Eligibility Criteria for Different Programs
Some programs have extra eligibility rules in addition to HUD's general requirements and income limits:
Applying for Public Housing in Denver: A Step-by-Step Guide
Applying for public housing with the Denver Housing Authority generally involves these steps :
Understanding the Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) Lottery
The Denver Housing Authority uses a lottery system for Section 8 vouchers :
Applying for Affordable Homeownership Programs
Applying for affordable homeownership in Denver generally involves these steps :
Government Agencies and Housing Authorities
Non-Profit Organizations Providing Housing Assistance
Online Search Portals for Affordable Housing
Several neighborhoods in Denver offer low-income housing options :
Amenities to Expect in Low Income Apartments Denver
Amenities can vary, but many low-income apartment complexes in Denver offer features like :
Transportation Options Near Low Income Housing in Denver
Many low-income housing options in Denver are near public transportation like buses and light rail. Some communities offer discounted transit passes. Denver's shared bike and scooter program (Lime and Bird) also provides affordable options, with potential discounts for low-income residents. Events also focus on transportation and affordable housing.
Understanding Waiting Lists for Low Income Apartments Denver
Demand for low-income housing in Denver often leads to waiting lists. The average wait time in Colorado was about one year and seven months in 2023. The Section 8 program uses a lottery instead of a traditional waiting list. Some waiting lists may close due to high demand. Apply to multiple lists you're eligible for to increase your chances. Keep your contact information updated and respond promptly to any communication. You can check your status with the Public Housing Authority (PHA).
Protecting Yourself from Rental Scams in Denver
Be cautious of rental scams when looking for affordable housing. Red flags include very low prices, landlords who won't meet in person, and requests for money before signing a lease. Poorly written listings and pressure to act fast are also warnings. Be wary of online listings, especially on Craigslist and Facebook. Never send money without seeing the property and verifying the landlord's identity. Verify a real estate broker's license here: Licensee Look-up
. Always sign a lease before paying. Report suspicious listings to the platform and the Denver Police fraud hotline at 720-913-9179. Contact Colorado Housing Connects at 1-844-926-6632 for help avoiding scams.
Temporary and Emergency Housing Options in Denver
If you need immediate housing, Denver offers temporary and emergency options. These include shelters for men (Lawrence Street Community Center, Crossroads), women (Samaritan House), families (Salvation Army Connection Center), and youth (Urban Peak). Domestic violence shelters like SafeHouse Denver are also available. The Temporary Rental and Utility Assistance (TRUA) program may offer short-term help for Denver residents facing eviction. Call 2-1-1 Colorado for emergency shelter and rental assistance resources. Organizations like Volunteers of America and Denver Rescue Mission also provide shelter programs.
Finding affordable housing in Denver requires effort and information. By understanding the available programs, knowing where to search, and preparing for the application process, you can navigate the system effectively. While challenges exist, numerous resources are available to assist you in your search for a stable and affordable home in Denver.
Income limits vary depending on the specific program and the size of your household, but generally fall within percentages of the Area Median Income (AMI) for Denver County, such as 30%, 50%, or 60%. For example, for the Housing Choice Voucher program, the income limit for a family of four is typically around $65,200.
The Denver Housing Authority (DHA) uses a lottery system for the Housing Choice Voucher program, and registration is usually open online once a year, typically in September. You need to register during the open period, and if your number is selected, you will be invited to complete a full application.
You can find listings on websites like ColoradoHousingSearch.com , Zillow , Apartments.com , and Trulia. Additionally, the Denver Housing Authority's website lists their properties and availability.
Generally, you need to meet HUD's basic requirements, which include not being a registered sex offender, not having been evicted from federally assisted housing for drug-related activity recently, and being a U.S. citizen or having eligible immigration status. Age requirements also typically apply.
Waiting times can vary significantly depending on the program and demand. For public housing, it can take 6-12 months or longer. The Housing Choice Voucher program uses a lottery, so the timeframe depends on when your number is selected.
Yes, some low-income apartment communities in Denver are pet-friendly. It's best to check the specific pet policies of the properties you are interested in.
Amenities can vary, but many offer community rooms, computer labs, playgrounds, laundry facilities, and sometimes even fitness centers and swimming pools. Some communities also offer resident services.
Yes, Denver residents facing eviction may be eligible for the Temporary Rental and Utility Assistance (TRUA) program. You can also call 2-1-1 Colorado for information on emergency rental assistance resources.
Housing Navigators at the Denver Housing Authority can answer your questions about affordable housing programs, explain the application process, help you find landlords who accept vouchers, and provide resources for obtaining necessary documents. You can contact them directly for assistance.
Be cautious of listings that seem too good to be true, landlords who refuse to meet in person or show the property, and requests for upfront payments before signing a lease. Always verify the landlord's identity and never send money without seeing the property.
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