Missouri tenants in 2025 should be aware that the state does not have any rent control laws, meaning there is no legal cap or limit on how much a landlord can increase rent. Landlords in Missouri are free to raise rent by any amount they choose, as long as they follow certain notice and procedural requirements.
Notice Requirements
Landlords must provide tenants with advance written notice before raising rent. For month-to-month leases, the standard is at least 30 days’ notice before the new rent takes effect. For fixed-term leases, rent cannot be increased until the lease term ends unless the lease specifically allows for mid-term increases. In that case, the notice period and process should be clearly outlined in the lease agreement.
No Statewide Rent Control, Some Local Exceptions
Missouri law bans rent control at the state level, so there is no statewide restriction on rent increases. However, a few local jurisdictions, such as Columbia, have passed their own rent stabilization ordinances that may cap increases or tie them to inflation. These local rules are rare and do not affect most renters in the state.
When Is a Rent Increase Illegal?
While landlords have broad discretion, rent increases cannot be used for discriminatory or retaliatory purposes. Under the federal Fair Housing Act and Missouri law, it is illegal to raise rent based on a tenant’s race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, or disability. It is also unlawful to increase rent in retaliation for tenants exercising their legal rights, such as filing complaints about unsafe conditions.
A rent increase may also be challenged if the landlord fails to provide proper notice, or if it violates the terms of the existing lease. During a fixed-term lease, rent cannot be raised unless the lease specifically allows it.
Frequency and Documentation
There is no legal limit on how often a landlord can raise rent in Missouri, provided each increase is accompanied by the required notice. Tenants should always request written documentation of any rent increase, including the effective date and new amount, to avoid misunderstandings.
What Tenants Can Do
If you believe a rent increase is discriminatory, retaliatory, or violates your lease or notice requirements, you have the right to challenge it. Collect all relevant documentation and consider seeking legal advice. Tenants should also review their lease agreements carefully for any clauses related to rent increases and ensure landlords are following both state law and the written lease.
In 2025, Missouri remains a landlord-friendly state with no statewide cap on rent increases. Landlords must provide proper notice and cannot raise rent for illegal reasons, but otherwise have broad authority to set new rent amounts. Tenants are protected against discrimination and retaliation, and should stay informed about their lease terms and local ordinances that may offer additional protections.
Sources
[1] https://www.hemlane.com/resources/missouri-rent-control-laws/
[2] https://www.steadily.com/blog/how-much-can-a-landlord-raise-rent-in-missouri
[3] https://innago.com/missouri-landlord-tenant-laws/
[4] https://www.hemlane.com/resources/missouri-tenant-landlord-law/
[5] https://www.doorloop.com/blog/how-much-can-a-landlord-raise-rent
