Indiana Rent Prices, Caps, and Rules: 2025 Guide for Renters

Understanding your rights as a renter in Indiana is essential—especially as average rent prices continue to change. This 2025 guide breaks down what renters need to know about rent prices, rent increase limits, and security deposit laws, all based on official Indiana laws and resources.

Average Rent Prices in Indiana for 2025

Rent prices in Indiana can vary depending on location and apartment type. According to the latest statewide data from the Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority, prices are as follows:

• 1-bedroom apartment: $890–$980 per month (median)
• 2-bedroom apartment: $1,050–$1,200 per month (median)
• 3-bedroom unit: $1,300–$1,450 per month (median)

Urban areas like Indianapolis may be higher, while rural communities often cost less. Always check with your local housing authority for current local averages.

Are There Rent Control or Rent Caps in Indiana?

Indiana law does not set statewide limits (or "caps") on how much a landlord can increase the rent. Landlords are generally allowed to set rent at their discretion, unless you are in subsidized, public, or Section 8 housing, where separate federal rules apply.

• There is no statewide rent control in Indiana.
• Local cities and towns also cannot pass rent control ordinances under Indiana Code § 32-31-1-20.¹
• Any rent increase must follow proper notice requirements (see below).

Rent Increase Notice Requirements

Landlords in Indiana must give proper written notice before raising rent:

• Month-to-month leases: Must provide at least 30 days' advance written notice.
• Fixed-term leases: Rent cannot generally be increased in the middle of a fixed-term lease unless your lease agreement allows it.

Always check your lease for specific terms about rent adjustments, and keep a copy of any written notices from your landlord.

Security Deposits and Fees: What’s Allowed?

Indiana doesn’t limit the amount that can be charged for a security deposit. However, there are clear rules on how and when your deposit must be returned:

• No legal maximum deposit—most landlords ask for 1-2 months’ rent
• Your deposit must be returned within 45 days after your lease ends and you move out
• If deductions are taken (for damages, unpaid rent, etc.), the landlord must provide an itemized list of charges

To ensure you get your deposit back promptly, provide your landlord with a forwarding address at move-out.

Official Indiana Rental Forms You Might Use

• Notice to Vacate: Used when a renter wants to end a month-to-month tenancy. Indiana does not provide a state-issued form, but written notice is required. See sample templates from the Indiana Legal Help portal at IndianaLegalHelp.org.
• Security Deposit Return Request: If your landlord does not return your deposit or itemized deductions within 45 days, you can make a written demand citing Indiana Code § 32-31-3-12.²
• Complaint Form (Indiana Small Claims Landlord-Tenant Forms): If an issue is unresolved, renters may file a complaint in county small claims court using the appropriate forms found on the Indiana Judicial Branch website.

Which Indiana Agency Handles Residential Tenancy Disputes?

Disputes between landlords and renters in Indiana are typically handled by local small claims courts. You can find your county court and access forms via the Indiana Judicial Branch court directory.

If you need guidance, the Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority offers renter resources and housing advice statewide.

Relevant Indiana Rent and Tenant Laws

Key state laws protecting Indiana renters include:

• Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31: Landlord-Tenant Relations
• Rent control prohibition (IC 32-31-1-20)
• Security deposit return law (IC 32-31-3-12)

FAQs: Indiana Rent, Deposits, and Fee Rules

1. Is there a limit to how much my rent can be increased in Indiana?
   There is no state-mandated cap on rent increases. Landlords must give at least 30 days’ written notice for month-to-month tenancies.
2. How soon after I move out should I receive my security deposit?
   Your landlord has 45 days to return your deposit or provide an itemized list of deductions, as required by Indiana law.
3. What should I do if my landlord does not return my security deposit?
   Send a written demand. If you still don’t receive your deposit, you can file a complaint in small claims court using the forms from the Indiana Judicial Branch website.
4. Can my city or town set its own rent control rules?
   No, local governments in Indiana are prohibited by state law from enacting rent control ordinances.
5. Where can I find help if I’m having trouble with my landlord?
   You can contact Indiana Legal Help, the Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority, or your local small claims court for assistance.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority (IHCDA) — Statewide renter support and resources
• Indiana Judicial Branch: Court Directory — Find your local small claims court to resolve landlord-tenant issues
• Indiana Legal Help — Free legal forms, information, and clinics for renters

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1. Indiana Code § 32-31-1-20 (Prohibition of rent control)
2. Indiana Code § 32-31-3-12 (Security deposit return requirements)
3. Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority
4. Indiana Judicial Branch: Small Claims Court Directory

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