Kentucky Rent Prices and Caps: 2025 Tenant Guide

Understanding what you can expect to pay for rent—and what your rights are if your landlord tries to raise it—is essential for renters in Kentucky. As you look for a home or navigate an existing lease in 2025, knowing the average rent prices, legal regulations on rent increases, and how security deposits work can help you avoid surprises and make informed decisions.

Average Rent Prices in Kentucky (2025)

Rental rates in Kentucky vary by city, property size, and location. Based on the latest U.S. Census Bureau and Kentucky statewide reports, here’s what renters can typically expect:

• Statewide average (all units): $950–$1,050 per month
• Louisville Metro: $1,150 per month (one-bedroom), $1,350 (two-bedroom)
• Lexington: $1,000 per month (one-bedroom), $1,200 (two-bedroom)
• Smaller cities & rural areas: $700–$900 per month

Rent prices in Kentucky remain more affordable compared to the national average, but they have seen steady increases over recent years.

Does Kentucky Have Rent Control or Limits on Increases?

As of 2025, Kentucky does not have statewide rent control or caps on how much a landlord can raise your rent. Local governments in Kentucky are also prohibited from enacting rent control ordinances.^[1]

How Much Notice Is Required for Rent Increases?

• For month-to-month leases, landlords must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before any rent increase goes into effect.^[2]
• For fixed-term leases (like a 12-month lease), the rent cannot be raised during the lease term unless the lease specifically allows it.

If you receive a notice, check your lease and contact your landlord with questions.

Security Deposits: Legal Limits and Returns

Security deposits in Kentucky are regulated by the Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (KRS § 383.505–383.715).^[3] Here’s what you should know:

• No maximum limit: Kentucky law does not place an upper limit on how much a landlord can require as a security deposit.
• Storage: Security deposits must be held in a separate, interest-bearing account, and landlords must disclose the account location in writing.
• Return: Deposits must be returned within 30 to 60 days after you move out, minus any deductions for damages (not normal wear and tear).
• Inspection sheet: Tenants have the right to a list of pre-existing damages when moving in. Complete and return this sheet to document the rental’s condition.

Standard Fees: Application, Late, and Pet Fees

Kentucky law does not regulate the maximum amount landlords can charge for the following:

• Application fees
• Late payment fees
• Pet fees or deposits

However, fees must be reasonable and disclosed to tenants in writing. Always ask for a receipt and keep records of any payments you make.

Official Forms for Renters in Kentucky

• 30-Day Notice to Terminate Tenancy:
  • When to use: If you are on a month-to-month lease and need to move out, you must give your landlord a "30-Day Notice to Terminate Tenancy." Your landlord also uses this notice for rent increases or ending the lease.
  • How to use: Complete the form, deliver it to your landlord (in person or by mail), and keep a copy for your records.
  • Official notice instructions—KY Justice
• Security Deposit Itemization Sheet:
  • When to use: Provided by the landlord at move-in and move-out to list property conditions and damages.
  • How to use: Walk through the property, note any damages, sign the sheet, and request a copy.
  • KRS 383.580 Security Deposit Law

Kentucky’s Tenant-Landlord Tribunal and Legislation

If you have a dispute over rent, deposits, or a notice, you may use your county’s District Court or Small Claims Court (Kentucky Court of Justice) to resolve the matter.^[4]

All renter and landlord rights come from the Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (KRS § 383.505 - 383.715).

FAQs: Rent Prices, Increases & Deposits in Kentucky

1. Are there limits on how much my landlord can raise the rent?
   In Kentucky, there are no statewide limits or caps on rent increases, but you must be given at least 30 days’ written notice for most month-to-month leases.
2. How quickly must a landlord return a security deposit?
   Landlords must return your security deposit within 30 to 60 days after you move out, along with an itemized list of any deductions for damages.
3. Do application or late fees have limits in Kentucky?
   No, Kentucky law does not set caps for application or late fees, but they must be disclosed and cannot be excessive or retaliatory.
4. What should I do if I disagree with charges taken out of my security deposit?
   If you dispute security deposit deductions, you can request an explanation in writing and, if unresolved, file a small claims case through county court.
5. Does Kentucky require advance notice to increase rent on a fixed-term lease?
   No. During a fixed-term lease, the rent amount cannot be raised unless your lease agreement allows for an increase.

Key Takeaways for Kentucky Renters

• There are no rent caps in Kentucky, but advance written notice is required for increases on month-to-month leases.
• Security deposits have no statutory maximum, but return procedures and disclosure rules apply.
• All rights and obligations are governed by the Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

Staying informed about state rental rules helps you protect your rights and avoid surprises.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Kentucky

• Kentucky Court of Justice – Find your local court for rent disputes and small claims.
• Kentucky Housing Corporation – Housing resources and support services.
• Legal Aid Society (Louisville Region) – Free or low-cost legal help for renters.
• Kentucky Justice Online – Tenant guides, forms, and legal information.

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1. [1] Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (KRS § 383.505 et seq.)
2. [2] Ending Your Lease in Kentucky – KY Justice
3. [3] KRS 383.580 – Security Deposits
4. [4] Kentucky Court of Justice – District Courts

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