For many Lake County residents, keeping up with rent has become a growing challenge.
As housing prices rise faster than wages, renters in cities like Clermont, Leesburg, and Eustis are facing mounting pressure. The good news? There are dedicated rental assistance programs available — both local and statewide — that can help stabilize your housing situation and prevent eviction. Whether you’re behind on rent, dealing with utility shutoffs, or simply struggling to make ends meet, this guide will walk you through available resources, eligibility requirements, and how to apply for help.

Why Rental Assistance Is Crucial in Lake County

The Local Housing Affordability Crisis

Lake County, FL, mirrors a statewide trend of rising rents and limited affordable housing options. According to Zumper Rental Trends, the median rent for a two-bedroom apartment rose from approximately $1,150 in 2020 to over $1,450 in 2024 — a more than 25% increase in just four years.

This surge, paired with slow income growth, has pushed many households into rent-burden status.

Additionally, affordable housing stock remains limited, especially in rural and suburban zones where transportation and outreach services are harder to access.

Populations Most in Need

While anyone can struggle financially, some Lake County residents are at higher risk of housing insecurity:

• Seniors and disabled individuals on fixed incomes often face rising rents with little room in their budgets.

• Single-parent households carry the burden of childcare costs and lower average income.

• Unemployed or underemployed individuals, especially those working part-time or in gig-based jobs, face erratic income patterns.

• Veterans and domestic violence survivors often encounter sudden financial shocks or transitions that make stable housing difficult.

Available Rental Assistance Programs in Lake County, FL

A variety of rental aid options exist through county agencies, nonprofits, and churches. Below are the key programs residents should know about.

Lake County Housing Services – Emergency Rental Assistance

This county-run program provides support for past-due rent, upcoming rent payments, and utility bills.

• Eligibility: Households earning up to 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI), experiencing financial hardship due to circumstances like job loss or illness.

• Application Process:

  • Apply online at www.lakecountyfl.gov/housing

  • Or call for in-person help at designated assistance centers.

• What’s Covered:

  • Up to 12 months of rent assistance

  • Utility arrears (electricity, water)

  • Limited future rent if needed for stability

📍 Important: Priority is given to those who are at immediate risk of eviction or utility disconnection.

Florida’s Statewide Our Florida Program (Now Closed)

While Our Florida officially closed in 2022, it served over 250,000 households statewide — including thousands in Lake County. Understanding this program’s closure is important because:

• It demonstrates how federal COVID-19 funds were distributed

• Its closure has led to more localized, county-driven assistance programs

Those who received funds through Our Florida may still qualify for additional local help if financial hardship continues.

Local Nonprofits Providing Rental Help

Several nonprofit and faith-based organizations in Lake County offer short-term rental and utility assistance:

• Mid-Florida Homeless Coalition (midfloridahomeless.org)
  Offers emergency rental support and rehousing programs for the chronically homeless or at-risk families.

• Lake Community Action Agency (LCAA) (lakecaa.org)
  Provides temporary rental, utility, and mortgage assistance. LCAA also offers case management and financial counseling.

• Saint Vincent de Paul & Salvation Army (Lake County Chapters)
  Emergency relief funds for rent, water, and electric bills. Availability varies by location and donations.

How to Qualify and Apply for Rental Assistance

Understanding the qualification criteria and gathering the correct documents can make your application process smoother and faster.

Income Limits and Eligibility

Most programs follow HUD income guidelines, which means eligibility is based on a household earning 80% or less of the Area Median Income (AMI). For a family of four in Lake County, that equates to roughly $62,000 annually.

Priority is often given to applicants who:

• Are facing imminent eviction (with a notice)

• Have no other housing options

• Are part of a vulnerable group (e.g., seniors, disabled, veterans)

Required Documents

Before applying, gather these core documents:

• Photo ID (driver’s license, passport)

• Proof of income (recent pay stubs, unemployment letter, tax return)

• Lease or rental agreement

• Utility bills (if applying for combined assistance)

• Eviction notice or delinquency letter (if applicable)

Having a complete application significantly increases your chances of approval and faster processing.

How to Submit Applications

Residents can apply in one of two ways:

• Online Portals: Visit lakecountyfl.gov/housing for current application links and program availability.

• In-Person Assistance: Available at Lake County Community Resource Centers, LCAA offices, and through outreach events.

💡 Tip: If internet access is a barrier, ask your local library or community center for help with submitting online forms.

Key Research & Data Points

Understanding the data behind the crisis helps highlight the importance of these programs:

• Median rent in Lake County rose from $1,150 to $1,450 between 2020 and 2024, a 26% jump.
  Source: Zumper Rental Trends

• Over 33% of Lake County renters are considered housing cost-burdened, meaning they spend more than 30% of their income on housing.
  Source: University of Florida Shimberg Center

• Rural communities in Lake County often lack proximity to aid centers and affordable units, making mobile and outreach services essential.
  Source: Florida Housing Coalition

Expert Quotes

“Rural counties like Lake often get overlooked in rental assistance discussions, but the need here is just as urgent.”
— Maria Taylor, Florida Housing Coalition

“If you’re struggling to make rent, don’t wait — apply early and reach out to your local agencies for help.”
— Spokesperson, Lake Community Action Agency

Real-Life Examples

Leesburg Resident Avoids Eviction with Help from LCAA

After being laid off from his job, Michael — a father of three — fell two months behind on rent. Facing eviction, he connected with LCAA, who stepped in with $2,400 in rental aid. In addition, they offered job search support and utility help. Today, Michael is employed full-time and current on his rent.

Clermont Senior Receives Utility and Rental Aid During Medical Crisis

Marjorie, a retired schoolteacher battling cancer, was overwhelmed by medical bills and unable to pay rent and utilities. Through Lake County Housing Services, she received three months of rental coverage and had her electric bill paid, allowing her to recover without the fear of losing her home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What rental programs are currently active in Lake County, FL?

Lake County Housing Services and several nonprofits (LCAA, Mid Florida Homeless Coalition) are currently offering assistance. Visit their websites or dial 2-1-1 for the most up-to-date info.

Can I receive help if I have an informal lease or pay cash?

Yes, but you may need to provide written confirmation from your landlord, rent receipts, or a notarized letter to verify your tenancy.

What happens after I apply for rental aid?

Your application will be reviewed for completeness and eligibility. If approved, funds are usually sent directly to your landlord or utility provider within 2–4 weeks.

Can I get help with utilities too?

Yes. Most programs include utility assistance for electric, water, and sometimes gas bills. Be sure to submit current utility bills with your application.

Are there programs specifically for veterans or seniors?

Yes. Organizations like LCAA and the Mid-Florida Homeless Coalition offer targeted aid for veterans and seniors, including housing navigation, transportation support, and case management.

Additional Resources and Contacts

• Lake County Housing Services – www.lakecountyfl.gov/housing

• Lake Community Action Agency (LCAA) – www.lakecaa.org

• Mid-Florida Homeless Coalition – www.midfloridahomeless.org

• Dial 2-1-1 – Or visit United Way of Lake & Sumter Counties for referrals

Conclusion

Rental assistance in Lake County is more than just financial support — it’s a pathway to housing stability. Whether you’re facing a job loss, medical emergency, or unexpected expense, you don’t have to go through it alone. Multiple programs are ready to help, but you need to take the first step. Act early, prepare your documents, and reach out to local agencies for guidance and support.