Arkansas Rent Prices, Fees, and Deposit Laws: 2025 Guide

Understanding rent prices, fees, and deposit rules helps Arkansas renters make confident decisions. With no statewide rent control, it's vital to know the average rents, the laws that govern increases, and what protections exist for tenants throughout 2025.

Average Rent Prices in Arkansas 2025

Rent prices in Arkansas remain among the lowest in the nation. According to U.S. Census Bureau data and recent reports from the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, the average monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment in 2025 is approximately $860 statewide. However, rent can vary significantly depending on location:

• Little Rock: $950–$1,100 (2-bedroom avg.)
• Fayetteville: $1,050–$1,250 (2-bedroom avg.)
• Rural/smaller towns: $650–$850 (2-bedroom avg.)

Prices may be higher in desirable neighborhoods or for newer properties.

Does Arkansas Have Rent Caps or Rent Control?

Arkansas does not have any state-level rent control laws or rent caps. This means landlords can set rent at market rates and increase it without a legal maximum, unless bound by the terms of your lease agreement. However, notice and timing rules do apply for rent increases.

Rent Increase Rules in Arkansas

• Landlords must provide written notice for any rent increase at least once the rental period ends (usually 30 days for month-to-month leases).
• For fixed-term leases (e.g., one year), rent cannot be increased during the term unless the lease allows it.

All changes to rent must comply with the Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act.¹

What Additional Fees Can Landlords Charge?

Landlords in Arkansas can legally charge fees like:

• Application fees (no state cap, but must be reasonable and clearly disclosed)
• Late payment fees (no statutory limits, but must be specified in the lease)
• PET fees and deposits (if allowed by lease)

Fees may not be discriminatory or retaliatory.

Security Deposit Limits and Return Rules

Arkansas law limits how much a landlord can collect for a security deposit:

• Maximum deposit: Two months' rent
• Deposit must be returned within 60 days after you move out, minus valid deductions (unpaid rent, damages, etc.)
• Landlord must provide an itemized statement if any amount is withheld

See guidance from the Arkansas Attorney General and review Arkansas Code § 18-16-304 for details.²

Key Forms for Arkansas Renters

• Arkansas Notice to Vacate: Required if you plan to move out or if your landlord is terminating tenancy. Often known as a "30 Day Notice."
  • When used: Give this notice in writing at least 30 days before you wish to leave (for month-to-month leases).
  • Find official Notice to Vacate details at Arkansas.gov
• Arkansas Complaint for Retaliatory Eviction: Used if you believe a landlord is trying to evict you because you exercised your rights (e.g. reporting a housing code violation).
  • When used: File with the appropriate court if you suspect retaliation.
  • Access court forms at the Arkansas Judiciary Forms page

Who Handles Rental Disputes in Arkansas?

The primary body handling landlord-tenant cases, including evictions and deposit disputes, is your county’s District Court. For more information on your local court, consult the list of Arkansas District Courts.

Relevant State Legislation

The main law is the Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007, and for security deposits, Arkansas Code § 18-16-301 through § 18-16-305.^1,2

FAQs: Arkansas Rent Price Rules and Tenant Protections

1. Can my landlord raise my rent at any time?
   For month-to-month leases, your landlord can increase rent with at least 30 days’ written notice. For fixed-term leases, rent cannot change until the lease ends unless stated otherwise.
2. Does Arkansas limit how much a landlord can charge for a security deposit?
   Yes. The maximum is two months’ rent. See security deposit law for more details.
3. Where do I file a complaint about my landlord?
   Rental disputes, including security deposit issues, are handled by your local District Court.
4. Are there limits on late fees or application fees?
   No Arkansas law sets strict caps, but all fees must be clear in your lease and not excessive or retaliatory.
5. How quickly does my landlord have to return my security deposit after I move out?
   Your landlord must return your deposit (minus deductions) within 60 days of move-out, along with an itemized list of any deductions.

Key Takeaways

• There are no state rent caps, but notice rules apply for rent increases.
• Security deposits are capped at two months’ rent and must be returned within 60 days with an itemized list.
• Your local District Court handles most landlord-tenant disputes in Arkansas.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (official legislation)
• Arkansas Attorney General – Landlord & Tenant Guide
• Arkansas District Courts Directory
• Center for Arkansas Legal Services (free tenant legal help)

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1. Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007
2. Arkansas Security Deposit Statute § 18-16-301 – 305

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