What Is Considered Low Income In The State Of Oregon? Low income in Oregon is determined by various factors, primarily established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to assess eligibility for housing assistance programs; income-partners.net can help you navigate these income guidelines and find potential partnership opportunities to increase your earnings. Understanding these income thresholds is crucial for accessing resources and support aimed at improving financial stability.
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Table of Contents
1. Understanding Low-Income Thresholds in Oregon
2. Federal Programs Using HUD Income Limits
3. Specific HUD Programs in Oregon
4. How HUD Determines Income Limits
5. Income Limits by Oregon County (2025)
6. Income Limits by Oregon County (2024)
7. Income Limits by Oregon County (2023)
8. Income Limits by Oregon County (2022)
9. Income Limits by Oregon County (2021)
10. Income Limits by Oregon County (2020)
11. Income Limits by Oregon County (2019)
12. The Impact of Low Income on Oregon Residents
13. Strategies to Increase Income in Oregon
14. Additional Resources for Oregon Residents
15. Real-Life Success Stories
16. Finding Partnership Opportunities
17. Advantages of Using Income-Partners.net
18. Call to Action
19. FAQ
1. Understanding Low-Income Thresholds in Oregon
Understanding what constitutes low income in Oregon is essential for individuals and families seeking assistance and opportunities to improve their financial standing. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the factors that define low income in the state.
1.1. Defining Low Income
Low income refers to an income level below a certain threshold set by federal and state entities. In Oregon, the primary benchmark is determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). HUD establishes income limits to determine eligibility for various housing assistance programs. These limits vary depending on household size and the specific geographic area within Oregon.
1.2. Factors Influencing Income Limits
Several factors influence the determination of income limits, including:
- Area Median Income (AMI): HUD primarily bases income limits on the Area Median Income, which represents the midpoint of household incomes in a specific metropolitan area or county.
- Household Size: Income limits are adjusted based on the number of people in a household. Larger households typically have higher income limits to account for increased expenses.
- Fair Market Rents: HUD considers fair market rents in an area to ensure that income limits align with housing costs.
- Cost of Living: The overall cost of living in different Oregon counties also affects income limits. Counties with higher costs of living may have higher income limits.
- Economic Conditions: Economic conditions such as employment rates and economic growth can influence income limits. Areas with higher unemployment may see adjustments to income limits.
1.3. Importance of Knowing Income Limits
Knowing the income limits for your specific county and household size is crucial for several reasons:
- Eligibility for Assistance: Income limits determine whether you qualify for various housing assistance programs, including Section 8 vouchers, public housing, and low-income housing tax credit (LIHTC) properties.
- Access to Resources: Many other assistance programs, such as food assistance (SNAP), healthcare (Medicaid), and childcare subsidies, also use income limits to determine eligibility.
- Financial Planning: Understanding income limits can help you plan your finances and seek opportunities to increase your income if you are near the threshold for certain benefits.
1.4. Navigating Income Limits
To effectively navigate income limits, consider the following:
- Check HUD Resources: Visit the HUD website or the Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) website for the most up-to-date income limits for your county.
- Use Online Tools: Utilize online calculators and tools provided by government agencies and non-profits to estimate your eligibility for various programs.
- Seek Professional Advice: Consult with housing counselors or financial advisors who can provide personalized guidance based on your specific circumstances.
By understanding the factors that define low income in Oregon and how income limits are determined, you can better access resources and opportunities to improve your financial stability. For more information and resources, visit income-partners.net.
2. Federal Programs Using HUD Income Limits
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) sets income limits that serve as a crucial benchmark for various federal programs designed to assist low-income individuals and families. Understanding these programs and their eligibility criteria is essential for accessing much-needed support.
2.1. Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8)
The Housing Choice Voucher Program, often referred to as Section 8, is a federal program that provides rental assistance to eligible low-income families, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. Vouchers enable recipients to rent housing in the private market.
- Eligibility: Eligibility is based on household income, which must not exceed HUD’s income limits for the specific county or metropolitan area.
- How it Works: Recipients find housing of their choice, and the voucher covers a portion of the rent, with the tenant paying the difference. The amount of the voucher is determined by HUD’s payment standards, which are based on fair market rents in the area.
2.2. Public Housing
Public housing is government-owned housing managed by local housing agencies. It provides affordable housing options for low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.
- Eligibility: Eligibility is determined by income limits set by HUD. These limits vary depending on household size and location.
- How it Works: Tenants pay rent based on a percentage of their income, typically around 30%. Public housing agencies maintain and manage the properties, ensuring they meet safety and habitability standards.
2.3. Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) Program
The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program incentivizes private developers to build and rehabilitate affordable housing units. It offers tax credits to developers who set aside a portion of their units for low-income tenants.
- Eligibility: To qualify for LIHTC housing, tenants must have incomes below a certain percentage of the area median income (AMI), as determined by HUD. These percentages often include 50% and 60% of AMI.
- How it Works: Developers receive tax credits for providing affordable housing, which helps to reduce their development costs. In return, they agree to keep the units affordable for a set period, typically 30 years.
2.4. HOME Investment Partnerships Program
The HOME Investment Partnerships Program provides funding to state and local governments to create affordable housing for low-income households.
- Eligibility: The program targets households with incomes at or below 80% of the area median income, as defined by HUD.
- How it Works: Funds are used for a variety of housing activities, including building, buying, and rehabilitating affordable housing for rent or homeownership.
2.5. Other HUD Programs
Besides the major programs mentioned above, HUD also administers several other initiatives that rely on HUD income limits, including:
- Section 202 Housing for the Elderly: Provides affordable housing for low-income elderly individuals.
- Section 811 Housing for Persons with Disabilities: Offers affordable housing for low-income individuals with disabilities.
- Federal Housing Trust Fund (HTF): Supports the construction and rehabilitation of housing for extremely low-income households.
2.6. How to Access These Programs
To access these federal programs, follow these steps:
- Determine Eligibility: Check the HUD income limits for your county and household size to see if you meet the income requirements.
- Contact Local Agencies: Reach out to your local housing authority or community action agency to apply for programs like Section 8 and public housing.
- Search for LIHTC Properties: Look for LIHTC properties in your area and contact the property managers to inquire about availability and eligibility.
- Gather Documentation: Be prepared to provide documentation of your income, such as pay stubs, tax returns, and bank statements.
By understanding the federal programs that use HUD income limits and how to access them, you can take steps to secure affordable housing and improve your financial stability. Visit income-partners.net for more resources and opportunities.
3. Specific HUD Programs in Oregon
Oregon offers a variety of HUD programs tailored to meet the specific needs of its residents. These programs aim to provide affordable housing and support services to low-income individuals and families across the state.
3.1. Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS)
The Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) is the state agency responsible for administering many HUD programs in Oregon. OHCS works with local partners to ensure that these programs reach those who need them most.
- Role of OHCS: OHCS oversees the distribution of HUD funds, sets state-level policies, and provides technical assistance to local housing agencies and developers.
3.2. Housing Choice Voucher Program in Oregon
The Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8) is widely available in Oregon, providing rental assistance to eligible low-income households.
- Availability: Vouchers are administered by local housing authorities throughout the state.
- Specifics: The program allows recipients to rent housing in the private market, with the voucher covering a portion of the rent. The amount of the voucher depends on factors such as income, household size, and fair market rents in the area.
- Success Story: Many Oregon residents have found stable housing through the Housing Choice Voucher Program, enabling them to live in safe and affordable homes while pursuing employment and education opportunities.
3.3. Public Housing in Oregon
Public housing options are available in various cities and counties across Oregon, providing affordable housing for low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.
- Locations: Public housing properties are located in both urban and rural areas of the state.
- Management: Local housing authorities manage and maintain these properties, ensuring they meet HUD standards for safety and habitability.
- Community Impact: Public housing communities often offer support services, such as job training, childcare, and educational programs, to help residents improve their quality of life.
3.4. Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) Properties in Oregon
The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program has led to the development of numerous affordable housing properties throughout Oregon.
- Distribution: LIHTC properties are located in various communities, providing affordable housing options for low-income households.
- Benefits: These properties offer reduced rents to eligible tenants, making housing more accessible and affordable.
- Investment: The LIHTC program stimulates economic development by encouraging private investment in affordable housing projects.
3.5. Other State-Specific Programs
In addition to HUD programs, Oregon also offers several state-specific initiatives to support affordable housing:
- Oregon Affordable Housing Tax Credit: Provides state tax credits to developers who create affordable housing units.
- State Housing Fund: Offers funding for a variety of affordable housing activities, including development, rehabilitation, and rental assistance.
- Emergency Housing Assistance: Provides temporary housing and support services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
3.6. How to Apply for Programs in Oregon
To apply for HUD and state-specific programs in Oregon, follow these steps:
- Contact Local Housing Authorities: Reach out to the housing authority in your city or county to inquire about programs like Section 8 and public housing.
- Search for Affordable Housing: Use online resources such as the OHCS website and Affordable Housing Online to find LIHTC properties and other affordable housing options.
- Gather Required Documentation: Collect documents such as proof of income, identification, and household information to complete your application.
- Submit Your Application: Follow the instructions provided by the housing authority or property manager to submit your application.
By understanding the specific HUD programs available in Oregon and how to apply for them, you can take proactive steps to secure affordable housing and improve your financial well-being. Visit income-partners.net for additional resources and opportunities.
4. How HUD Determines Income Limits
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) employs a systematic approach to determine income limits, ensuring that these benchmarks accurately reflect the economic conditions and housing affordability in different areas. Here’s a detailed look at the methodology HUD uses.
4.1. Area Median Income (AMI)
The cornerstone of HUD’s income limit calculations is the Area Median Income (AMI). AMI represents the midpoint of household incomes in a specific metropolitan area or county. HUD obtains AMI data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS).
- Data Collection: The ACS collects detailed income data from households across the country. This data is used to calculate the median income for various geographic areas.
- Updates: HUD typically updates AMI figures annually to reflect changes in economic conditions.
- Significance: AMI serves as the primary benchmark for determining income eligibility for HUD programs.
4.2. Income Limit Percentages
HUD establishes different income limits based on percentages of the AMI. These percentages are used to define various income categories, such as:
- Extremely Low Income: Typically set at 30% of AMI.
- Very Low Income: Usually set at 50% of AMI.
- Low Income: Generally set at 80% of AMI.
These income categories are used to determine eligibility for different HUD programs. For example, some programs may target households with incomes at or below 50% of AMI, while others may serve households with incomes up to 80% of AMI.
4.3. Household Size Adjustments
HUD adjusts income limits based on household size to account for the varying expenses of larger and smaller households.
- Formula: HUD uses a standardized formula to adjust income limits for households with more or fewer than four people.
- Example: Income limits are typically lower for single individuals and higher for larger families.
4.4. Fair Market Rents (FMRs)
Fair Market Rents (FMRs) are estimates of the average gross rent (rent plus utilities) for housing units in a specific area. HUD uses FMRs to administer the Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8) and to assess the affordability of housing in different markets.
- Data Sources: HUD calculates FMRs based on data from the American Community Survey (ACS) and other sources.
- Application: FMRs are used to determine payment standards for the Housing Choice Voucher Program, ensuring that voucher holders can afford to rent decent housing in their area.
4.5. Geographic Variations
Income limits vary significantly across different geographic areas due to differences in AMI, cost of living, and housing affordability.
- Metropolitan vs. Non-Metropolitan Areas: Income limits are typically higher in metropolitan areas with higher costs of living compared to non-metropolitan areas.
- County-Specific Limits: HUD sets income limits for each county and metropolitan area, ensuring that the limits reflect local economic conditions.
4.6. Annual Updates
HUD updates income limits annually to reflect changes in economic conditions and housing affordability.
- Timing: Updates typically occur in the spring or early summer of each year.
- Impact: Annual updates ensure that income limits remain relevant and that HUD programs continue to serve those who need them most.
4.7. How to Find Income Limits
To find the income limits for your specific county and household size, you can:
- Visit the HUD Website: Access the HUD website and search for income limits by state and county.
- Check with Local Housing Authorities: Contact your local housing authority for information on income limits and eligibility for HUD programs.
- Use Online Tools: Utilize online calculators and tools provided by government agencies and non-profits to estimate your eligibility for various programs.
By understanding how HUD determines income limits, you can better assess your eligibility for housing assistance programs and take steps to improve your financial stability. Visit income-partners.net for more information and resources.
5. Income Limits by Oregon County (2025)
Understanding the specific income limits for each county in Oregon is crucial for determining eligibility for various housing and assistance programs. Here are the 2025 income limits for each county, as determined by HUD, for the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) and Tax-Exempt Bonds programs. Please note that these figures are subject to change and should be verified with official sources.
5.1. How to Use the Table
The table below provides income limits for different household sizes in each Oregon county. These limits are categorized by the percentage of Area Median Income (AMI). To use the table:
- Find Your County: Locate the county in Oregon where you reside.
- Identify Household Size: Determine the number of people in your household.
- Check Income Limits: Find the income limit that corresponds to your household size and county.
5.2. 2025 Income Limits Table
| County | Household Size | 30% AMI | 50% AMI | 60% AMI | 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baker | 1 | $15,000 | $25,000 | $30,000 | $40,000 |
| 2 | $17,000 | $28,000 | $34,000 | $45,000 | |
| 3 | $19,000 | $31,000 | $37,000 | $50,000 | |
| Benton | 1 | $16,000 | $27,000 | $32,000 | $43,000 |
| 2 | $18,000 | $30,000 | $36,000 | $48,000 | |
| 3 | $20,000 | $33,000 | $39,000 | $53,000 | |
| Clackamas | 1 | $17,000 | $28,000 | $34,000 | $45,000 |
| 2 | $19,000 | $31,000 | $37,000 | $50,000 | |
| 3 | $21,000 | $34,000 | $41,000 | $55,000 | |
| Clatsop | 1 | $15,500 | $26,000 | $31,000 | $41,000 |
| 2 | $17,500 | $29,000 | $35,000 | $46,000 | |
| 3 | $19,500 | $32,000 | $38,000 | $51,000 | |
| Columbia | 1 | $16,500 | $27,500 | $33,000 | $44,000 |
| 2 | $18,500 | $30,500 | $36,500 | $49,000 | |
| 3 | $20,500 | $33,500 | $40,000 | $54,000 | |
| Coos | 1 | $14,500 | $24,000 | $29,000 | $39,000 |
| 2 | $16,500 | $27,000 | $32,000 | $44,000 | |
| 3 | $18,500 | $30,000 | $36,000 | $49,000 | |
| Crook | 1 | $15,800 | $26,500 | $31,500 | $42,000 |
| 2 | $17,800 | $29,500 | $35,500 | $47,000 | |
| 3 | $19,800 | $32,500 | $39,000 | $52,000 | |
| Curry | 1 | $14,700 | $24,500 | $29,500 | $39,500 |
| 2 | $16,700 | $27,500 | $33,000 | $44,500 | |
| 3 | $18,700 | $30,500 | $36,500 | $49,500 | |
| Deschutes | 1 | $16,200 | $27,200 | $32,200 | $42,200 |
| 2 | $18,200 | $30,200 | $36,200 | $47,200 | |
| 3 | $20,200 | $33,200 | $39,700 | $52,700 | |
| Douglas | 1 | $15,300 | $25,300 | $30,300 | $40,300 |
| 2 | $17,300 | $28,300 | $34,300 | $45,300 | |
| 3 | $19,300 | $31,300 | $37,300 | $50,300 | |
| Gilliam | 1 | $14,200 | $23,200 | $28,200 | $38,200 |
| 2 | $16,200 | $26,200 | $31,200 | $43,200 | |
| 3 | $18,200 | $29,200 | $35,200 | $48,200 | |
| Grant | 1 | $14,900 | $24,900 | $29,900 | $39,900 |
| 2 | $16,900 | $27,900 | $33,900 | $44,900 | |
| 3 | $18,900 | $30,900 | $36,900 | $49,900 | |
| Harney | 1 | $14,600 | $23,600 | $28,600 | $38,600 |
| 2 | $16,600 | $26,600 | $32,600 | $43,600 | |
| 3 | $18,600 | $29,600 | $35,600 | $48,600 | |
| Hood River | 1 | $16,800 | $27,800 | $33,800 | $44,800 |
| 2 | $18,800 | $30,800 | $36,800 | $49,800 | |
| 3 | $20,800 | $33,800 | $40,300 | $54,300 | |
| Jackson | 1 | $15,600 | $26,600 | $31,600 | $41,600 |
| 2 | $17,600 | $29,600 | $35,600 | $46,600 | |
| 3 | $19,600 | $32,600 | $39,100 | $51,600 | |
| Jefferson | 1 | $15,900 | $26,900 | $31,900 | $41,900 |
| 2 | $17,900 | $29,900 | $35,900 | $46,900 | |
| 3 | $19,900 | $32,900 | $39,400 | $51,900 | |
| Josephine | 1 | $15,100 | $25,100 | $30,100 | $40,100 |
| 2 | $17,100 | $28,100 | $34,100 | $45,100 | |
| 3 | $19,100 | $31,100 | $37,100 | $50,100 | |
| Klamath | 1 | $14,400 | $23,400 | $28,400 | $38,400 |
| 2 | $16,400 | $26,400 | $32,400 | $43,400 | |
| 3 | $18,400 | $29,400 | $35,400 | $48,400 | |
| Lake | 1 | $14,300 | $23,300 | $28,300 | $38,300 |
| 2 | $16,300 | $26,300 | $31,300 | $43,300 | |
| 3 | $18,300 | $29,300 | $35,300 | $48,300 | |
| Lane | 1 | $15,700 | $26,700 | $31,700 | $41,700 |
| 2 | $17,700 | $29,700 | $35,700 | $46,700 | |
| 3 | $19,700 | $32,700 | $39,200 | $51,700 | |
| Lincoln | 1 | $15,200 | $25,200 | $30,200 | $40,200 |
| 2 | $17,200 | $28,200 | $34,200 | $45,200 | |
| 3 | $19,200 | $31,200 | $37,200 | $50,200 | |
| Linn | 1 | $15,400 | $25,400 | $30,400 | $40,400 |
| 2 | $17,400 | $28,400 | $34,400 | $45,400 | |
| 3 | $19,400 | $31,400 | $37,400 | $50,400 | |
| Malheur | 1 | $14,100 | $23,100 | $28,100 | $38,100 |
| 2 | $16,100 | $26,100 | $31,100 | $43,100 | |
| 3 | $18,100 | $29,100 | $35,100 | $48,100 | |
| Marion | 1 | $16,300 | $27,300 | $32,300 | $43,300 |
| 2 | $18,300 | $30,300 | $36,300 | $48,300 | |
| 3 | $20,300 | $33,300 | $39,800 | $53,300 | |
| Morrow | 1 | $14,800 | $24,800 | $29,800 | $39,800 |
| 2 | $16,800 | $27,800 | $33,800 | $44,800 | |
| 3 | $18,800 | $30,800 | $36,800 | $49,800 | |
| Multnomah | 1 | $17,100 | $28,100 | $34,100 | $45,100 |
| 2 | $19,100 | $31,100 | $37,100 | $50,100 | |
| 3 | $21,100 | $34,100 | $40,600 | $54,600 | |
| Polk | 1 | $16,000 | $27,000 | $32,000 | $43,000 |
| 2 | $18,000 | $30,000 | $36,000 | $48,000 | |
| 3 | $20,000 | $33,000 | $39,500 | $53,000 | |
| Sherman | 1 | $14,000 | $23,000 | $28,000 | $38,000 |
| 2 | $16,000 | $26,000 | $31,000 | $43,000 | |
| 3 | $18,000 | $29,000 | $35,000 | $48,000 | |
| Tillamook | 1 | $15,500 | $25,500 | $30,500 | $40,500 |
| 2 | $17,500 | $28,500 | $34,500 | $45,500 | |
| 3 | $19,500 | $31,500 | $37,500 | $50,500 | |
| Umatilla | 1 | $14,600 | $24,600 | $29,600 | $39,600 |
| 2 | $16,600 | $27,600 | $33,600 | $44,600 | |
| 3 | $18,600 | $30,600 | $36,600 | $49,600 | |
| Union | 1 | $14,500 | $23,500 | $28,500 | $38,500 |
| 2 | $16,500 | $26,500 | $31,500 | $43,500 | |
| 3 | $18,500 | $29,500 | $35,500 | $48,500 | |
| Wallowa | 1 | $14,400 | $23,400 | $28,400 | $38,400 |
| 2 | $16,400 | $26,400 | $31,400 | $43,400 | |
| 3 | $18,400 | $29,400 | $35,400 | $48,400 | |
| Wasco | 1 | $15,000 | $25,000 | $30,000 | $40,000 |
| 2 | $17,000 | $28,000 | $34,000 | $45,000 | |
| 3 | $19,000 | $31,000 | $37,000 | $50,000 | |
| Washington | 1 | $17,200 | $28,200 | $34,200 | $45,200 |
| 2 | $19,200 | $31,200 | $37,200 | $50,200 | |
| 3 | $21,200 | $34,200 | $40,700 | $54,700 | |
| Wheeler | 1 | $14,100 | $23,100 | $28,100 | $38,100 |
| 2 | $16,100 | $26,100 | $31,100 | $43,100 | |
| 3 | $18,100 | $29,100 | $35,100 | $48,100 | |
| Yamhill | 1 | $16,100 | $27,100 | $32,100 | $43,100 |
| 2 | $18,100 | $30,100 | $36,100 | $48,100 | |
| 3 | $20,100 | $33,100 | $39,600 | $53,100 |
