Rent Control Laws by State: Complete Guide 2025
Rent control limits how much landlords can increase rent. While only a few states and cities have rent control, understanding these laws is crucial for both landlords and tenants in affected areas.
Last Updated: January 2026
What is Rent Control?
Rent control or rent stabilization are local laws that limit how much landlords can raise rent each year.
- Usually allows annual increases tied to inflation (1-5%)
- May require just cause for eviction
- Often applies only to older buildings
- New construction typically exempt
States with Rent Control
Only a handful of states allow local rent control ordinances.
- California: Statewide cap of 5% + inflation (AB 1482)
- Oregon: Statewide cap of 7% + inflation
- New York: Rent stabilization in NYC and some suburbs
- New Jersey: Many cities have rent control
- Maryland: Some jurisdictions have rent caps
- Washington DC: Rent stabilization program
States That Ban Rent Control
Many states have preemption laws that prohibit cities from enacting rent control.
- Texas, Florida, Arizona: No rent control allowed
- Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee: Preemption laws
- Most Midwest and Southern states ban rent control
- Check your state for specific preemption status
Tenant Rights Under Rent Control
If you live in a rent-controlled unit, you have additional protections.
- Right to limited annual rent increases
- Often just cause eviction protection
- Right to renew lease (no arbitrary non-renewal)
- Succession rights for family members in some areas
Frequently Asked Questions
Disclaimer
LeaseCraft provides document automation and general information — not legal, tax, or financial advice. Laws and local rules change; verify requirements with your lease, state housing agency, or a licensed professional before acting on any estimate or summary on this page.