Missouri 2025 Rent Caps & Average Rent: A Renter's Guide

Understanding how much rent you can expect to pay—and whether your landlord can increase it—is crucial for Missouri renters in 2025. As market rates shift and housing costs change, knowing your rights can help you budget, avoid surprises, and plan for the future.

Average Rent Prices in Missouri for 2025

Rent prices in Missouri vary by city and property type but remain generally affordable compared to national averages. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Missouri Housing Development Commission show:

• Statewide median gross rent (2023): around $900 per month
• Kansas City average (2023): $1,050–$1,200 for a 1-bedroom
• St. Louis average (2023): $950–$1,150 for a 1-bedroom

Expect moderate increases in 2025, but always monitor your local market and compare similar properties when negotiating with landlords.

Rent Caps and Rent Increase Laws in Missouri

Missouri does not currently have statewide rent control or rent caps. This means landlords can generally increase rent by any amount at the end of a lease or with proper notice for month-to-month agreements. However, some localities may have special rules for subsidized or affordable housing units. Always check if your rental falls under special programs with additional protections.

By law, landlords must provide written notice before increasing rent:

• Month-to-month leases: At least 30 days' written notice before the increase takes effect
• Fixed-term leases: No increase until the current lease term ends, unless otherwise specified in the lease

If you receive a rent increase notice, make sure it meets the required advance notice period. If not, you may be able to challenge the increase.

Missouri Security Deposit Rules

Missouri law regulates how much landlords can charge for security deposits and when they must return deposits:

• Maximum deposit: No more than two months' rent (Missouri Revised Statutes § 535.300)
• Deposit return deadline: Within 30 days after you move out
• Deductions allowed for: Unpaid rent, damages beyond reasonable wear and tear, or other lease violations

When moving out, request a move-out inspection and document the condition of your rental to protect your deposit.

Required Official Forms for Missouri Renters

Notice to Vacate (Form Example: 30-Day Notice)

• Form Name: 30-Day Notice to Terminate Tenancy (no official state-wide form; check with your local court or Missouri Courts)
• Usage: Required when you or your landlord want to end a month-to-month rental agreement. For example, if your landlord notifies you of a rent increase and you wish to move instead, you must provide a 30-day written notice.
• Where to get it: Visit the Missouri Courts forms page for instructions and examples.

Request for Return of Security Deposit Sample Letter

• Form Name: Security Deposit Demand Letter (no official form required, but recommended by the Missouri Attorney General's Office)
• Usage: Used when your landlord fails to return your deposit within 30 days. You may send a letter requesting the return, referencing Missouri Revised Statutes § 535.300.
• Where to get it: Instructions and sample letters can be found at the Missouri Attorney General—Landlord-Tenant Law page.

Which Tribunal Handles Rent Disputes?

Rent and security deposit disputes in Missouri are resolved in the local Circuit Court or Associate Circuit Court for your county. For small claims (generally under $5,000), visit your county's court division or the main Missouri Judiciary site for details. There is no separate tenancy tribunal in Missouri.

Relevant Missouri Rental Legislation

Your rights and responsibilities as a Missouri renter are established by the Missouri Revised Statutes Chapters 441 (Landlord and Tenant) and 535 (Landlord-Tenant Actions).

FAQ: Rent, Fees & Security Deposits in Missouri

1. Can my landlord raise my rent any amount in Missouri?
   Yes, unless you have a current fixed-term lease preventing increases. Missouri does not have statewide rent caps, but landlords must provide proper notice before raising rent.
2. How much can my landlord charge for a security deposit?
   By law, a maximum of two months' rent can be charged as a security deposit in Missouri.
3. When will my deposit be returned after moving out?
   Landlords must return your deposit within 30 days after you move out, minus any legal deductions.
4. What do I do if my landlord doesn't return my deposit?
   Send a formal demand letter requesting your deposit back. If unresolved, file a claim in Missouri Small Claims Court.
5. Which authority helps with Missouri rent and deposit disputes?
   Generally, your local Circuit Court resolves these disputes. The Missouri Attorney General provides guidance.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Missouri Attorney General – Landlord-Tenant Law: Consumer help and sample letters
• Missouri Judiciary – Find Your Local Court
• Missouri Housing Development Commission (MHDC): Affordable housing and rental resources
• Legal Services of Missouri: Free or low-cost legal help for tenants

---

1. See Missouri Revised Statutes § 535.300 – Security Deposits
2. See Missouri Revised Statutes § 441.060 – Lease Term Expiration
3. See Missouri Attorney General – Landlord-Tenant Law
4. See Missouri Judiciary for dispute resolution details

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations