Arkansas remains one of the most landlord-friendly states in the U.S., and its rent increase laws in 2025 continue to reflect this stance. Here’s a clear breakdown of what tenants need to know:
No Statewide Rent Control or Cap
- No Limit on Rent Increases:
Arkansas does not have statewide rent control. Landlords can raise rent by any amount they choose, and there is no legal cap or maximum percentage increase. - No Local Rent Control:
Recent legislation (Act 459, 2025) reaffirms that cities and counties cannot enact their own rent control ordinances or set limits on rent, application fees, or deposits for private residential or commercial properties.
When and How Can Rent Be Increased?
- Fixed-Term Leases:
If you have a lease with a set term (like a one-year lease), your landlord cannot increase the rent until the lease expires—unless your lease specifically allows for mid-term increases. - Month-to-Month Leases:
For month-to-month tenants, landlords must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before a rent increase takes effect. - Week-to-Week Leases:
For week-to-week tenants, at least seven days’ written notice is required. - Notice Must Be in Writing:
Verbal notice is not valid. The notice must clearly state the new rent amount and when it will take effect.
Legal and Illegal Rent Increases
- Discrimination Is Illegal:
Landlords cannot raise rent based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, or familial status. This is protected under the federal Fair Housing Act and Arkansas law. - Retaliation Is Illegal:
It is unlawful for a landlord to increase rent in retaliation for a tenant exercising legal rights, such as filing a complaint about unsafe conditions. - During Lease Term:
Rent cannot be increased during the term of a fixed lease unless the lease agreement explicitly allows it.
Tenant Rights and Protections
- Right to Notice:
Tenants must receive written notice before any rent increase. If proper notice is not given, the increase is not valid. - Right to a Habitable Home:
Landlords must maintain safe and livable conditions. Rent increases do not affect this responsibility. - Security Deposits:
Security deposits are capped at two months’ rent and must be returned within 60 days of move-out, minus lawful deductions.
What Should Tenants Do?
- Review Your Lease:
Always check your lease for any clauses about rent increases. - Keep Records:
Save all written notices and communication regarding rent changes. - Seek Help if Needed:
If you believe a rent increase is discriminatory or retaliatory, contact the Arkansas Fair Housing Commission or seek legal advice.
Summary Table: Arkansas Rent Increase Laws (2025)
| Lease Type | Notice Required | Rent Cap? | Local Control? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed-term lease | End of lease only | No cap | Not allowed |
| Month-to-month | 30 days written | No cap | Not allowed |
| Week-to-week | 7 days written | No cap | Not allowed |
In Arkansas, there are no limits on how much your landlord can raise your rent, but you must receive proper written notice. Rent increases cannot be discriminatory or retaliatory, and local governments cannot impose their own rent controls. Carefully review your lease and know your rights to protect yourself as a tenant in 2025.
Sources
- https://www.steadily.com/blog/how-much-can-a-landlord-raise-rent-in-arkansas
- https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Acts/FTPDocument?path=%2FACTS%2F2025R%2FPublic%2F&file=459.pdf&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R
- https://www.hemlane.com/resources/arkansas-rent-control-laws/
- https://thompsonandhowle.com/arkansas-landlord-tenant-laws-rental-rights-2025/
- https://arkansasag.gov/divisions/public-protection/homes/landlord-and-tenant-rights/
