If you’re living in a rented home or apartment in Missouri, you may be worried about your rent going up. In 2025, with rising living costs, many landlords are increasing rent—but tenants still have rights. Understanding Missouri’s rent increase laws can help you avoid surprises and make smart decisions.
This article explains, in simple words, what the 2025 rent laws in Missouri say, how much your rent can be raised, and what landlords must do before changing your rent amount.
Does Missouri Have Rent Control?
As of 2025, Missouri does not have statewide rent control laws. This means landlords are generally free to increase rent by any amount they choose, as long as they follow proper notice rules and aren’t discriminating or retaliating against the tenant.
However, cities like St. Louis and Kansas City may have local housing policies or tenant protections, so it’s always good to check with your city’s housing office.
How Much Can Rent Be Increased?
Since there’s no rent cap in Missouri, there is no legal limit to how much a landlord can increase your rent. However, the increase must be:
Reasonable based on market trends
Given with proper written notice
Not based on discrimination (age, race, gender, etc.)
Not used as retaliation if you filed a complaint or used your tenant rights
For example, if the average rent in your area is ₹60,000 (approx. $750) per month, and your landlord suddenly raises it to ₹1,00,000 (approx. $1,250), you can negotiate or decide to move out, but there’s no legal block unless local rules apply.
How Much Notice Is Required?
In Missouri, landlords must give at least one month (30 days) written notice before increasing rent for month-to-month tenants.
If you’re in a fixed-term lease (like a 12-month contract), your landlord cannot raise the rent until your lease ends, unless the lease agreement says otherwise.
So:
Month-to-month lease: 30 days notice
Fixed-term lease: Rent stays the same until lease ends
Always ask for the notice in writing, and never rely on verbal changes.
What Is Considered an Illegal Rent Increase?
Some rent increases may be unlawful, even though Missouri doesn’t limit rent amounts. A rent hike can be challenged if it’s:
Based on discrimination (e.g., gender, religion, race, disability)
Retaliation after you reported unsafe living conditions
Not given with proper notice
In violation of your lease terms
If any of these happen, you can report it to the Missouri Human Rights Commission or get legal help.
Can You Negotiate the Rent Increase?
Yes, in many cases, tenants can negotiate with the landlord. If you’ve been a long-term or reliable tenant, landlords may be open to a smaller increase, especially if you agree to a longer lease or offer something in return (like paying rent earlier).
Tips for negotiation:
Stay calm and respectful
Compare your current rent with similar properties in your area
Show proof of your on-time payments
Suggest a reasonable counter offer
What If You Can’t Afford the New Rent?
If the rent increase is too high:
You can choose to move out at the end of your lease or notice period
Ask for rental assistance programs in Missouri
Look for cheaper housing or roommate options
Contact nonprofit housing groups for advice and legal help
Always inform your landlord in writing if you plan to move, and follow the proper move-out rules to avoid penalties.
Missouri rent increase laws in 2025 give landlords flexibility to raise rent, but they also protect tenants from unfair treatment. While there’s no cap on rent hikes, landlords must provide written notice and follow proper rules.
As a tenant, understanding your rights helps you stay informed, prepare for rent changes, and speak up if something doesn’t seem right. If you’re ever unsure, it’s a good idea to reach out to local housing experts or tenant rights organizations for support.
