Rent Increase Calculator
Time to raise rent? You need to know the new amount, whether it's legal in your area, and the annual impact. Get all three in one calculation.
Enter current rent and your increase. See the new amount and annual impact instantly.
Calculate Rent Increase
Enter current rent and desired increase
CA rent control: max 5% + CPI (up to 10%)
Rent Increase Rules by State
Rent increases are legal everywhere, but the rules vary. Here's what you need to know:
- California (AB 1482) — Max 5% + CPI, capped at 10% total. Applies to buildings 15+ years old.
- Oregon — Max 7% + CPI annually. Applies to buildings 15+ years old.
- New York City — Rent Guidelines Board sets annual limits for rent-stabilized units.
- Texas, Florida, most states — No limits. Increase by any amount with proper notice.
Pro tip: Even without rent control, large increases cause tenant turnover. The cost of vacancy often exceeds the benefit of a big raise. Most experienced landlords stick to 3-5% annual increases.
5 Rent Increase Mistakes That Backfire
Exceeding rent control limits
If your property is covered by rent control and you exceed the cap, tenants can file a complaint. You'll have to refund the excess and may face penalties.
Wrong notice period
Most states require 30 days notice for rent increases. Some require 60 days for increases over 10%. Give insufficient notice and the increase doesn't apply.
Increasing mid-lease
Fixed-term leases lock in rent until the term ends. You can only increase rent when the lease renews (unless the lease specifically allows mid-term increases).
Not checking market rates
Raising rent above market rate? Your tenant will leave. Keeping it below market? You're losing money. Always compare to similar units in your area.
Large jumps after years of no increases
Tenant paying $1,200 for 5 years suddenly gets hit with $1,800? They leave. Small annual increases (3-5%) are easier to absorb than one big jump.
Why Use This Calculator
See the exact new rent
$1,850 + 5% = ? The calculator tells you it's $1,942.50. No mental math required.
Know the annual impact
A $100/month increase is $1,200/year. See the full picture before you decide.
Check rent control compliance
The calculator warns you if your increase exceeds 10%, helping you stay within California's rent control limits.
Compare percentage vs. fixed
Is a $75 increase better than 5%? Enter both and see. The calculator shows you either calculation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I raise rent?
In states without rent control: any amount with proper notice. In rent-controlled areas: typically 3-10% depending on local law. Always check your specific jurisdiction.
When can I increase rent?
For month-to-month tenants: any time with proper notice (usually 30 days). For fixed-term leases: only at lease renewal. You cannot raise rent mid-lease unless the lease allows it.
How much notice do I need to give?
30 days is standard. California requires 30 days for increases under 10%, 90 days for increases 10% or more. Always provide written notice.
What's a reasonable annual increase?
3-5% annually keeps pace with inflation and maintenance costs without shocking tenants. Larger increases risk vacancy. The cost of turnover often exceeds the benefit of aggressive raises.
Can I raise rent during COVID or emergencies?
Some jurisdictions have temporary rent increase bans during emergencies. Check your local regulations. These rules change frequently.
Should I use percentage or fixed amount?
Percentages scale with rent value. Fixed amounts are easier to communicate. For $1,500 rent, 5% ($75) and $75 flat are the same. For $2,500 rent, 5% ($125) is more than $75 flat.