Montana Rent Prices, Increases, and Deposit Rules for 2025

Finding a home to rent in Montana means understanding the latest rent trends, what landlords can charge, and your legal protections. This guide is here to help Montana renters navigate average rent prices, the state's approach to rent caps, and key security deposit rules for 2025—all using accurate information from Montana's own laws and agencies.

What Are Typical Rent Prices Across Montana in 2025?

Montana's rental market continues to fluctuate, especially in areas experiencing population growth like Bozeman, Missoula, and Billings. According to the Montana Department of Commerce, the average monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment ranges between $1,000 and $1,500 in major cities for 2025. Smaller towns and rural areas see lower averages between $700 and $1,100.

• Missoula & Bozeman: Two-bedroom rent averages $1,400–$1,600
• Billings: Two-bedroom rent averages $1,200–$1,400
• Great Falls & Helena: $1,000–$1,200 per month
• Statewide: Studio and one-bedrooms range from $750–$1,200

These are averages, so actual rent may vary depending on the property's location, updates, and amenities. Renters should always compare rates in their chosen city or county to make informed decisions.

Does Montana Have Rent Control or Rent Increase Caps?

Currently, Montana does not have rent control laws or statewide rent caps. Landlords are generally allowed to set rent and raise it unless restricted by a written lease agreement.

• Landlords can raise rent at the end of a lease term or for month-to-month tenants, but must provide at least 30 days' written notice before the increase takes effect (Montana Code Annotated (MCA) § 70-24-202).
• No law limits how much the rent can increase, but discriminatory and retaliatory increases are illegal.
• Fixed-term leases: The landlord cannot increase rent until the lease expires, unless the lease allows it.

If you receive a rent increase notice, verify that the notice is in writing and gives you a full 30 days. For example, if your landlord delivers a notice on June 1, the new rent cannot take effect until July 1 at the earliest.

Security Deposits: How Much Can Landlords Charge?

Montana law does not set a maximum limit on security deposits. However, most landlords typically request 1–2 months’ rent as a deposit. The amount should be stated in your written lease.

• All security deposits must be itemized and returned within 30 days of moving out, minus any allowable deductions.
• Tenants have the right to a written statement listing deductions with their returned deposit (MCA § 70-25-201 to 70-25-206).

Required Notice for Rent Increases and Lease Changes

• For month-to-month tenancies: Landlords must provide a written 30-day notice for any rent increase (MCA § 70-24-202).
• For fixed-term tenants: Terms remain unchanged until lease ends unless otherwise stated.

Key Montana Rental Forms: What Renters Need

• 30-Day Notice to Terminate Tenancy:
  • When to use: If you wish to end your month-to-month rental, you must provide your landlord a 30-day written notice.
  • No official state-issued form number, but you can use a simple written letter stating your intention. A sample template is available via Montana Housing.
• Request for Return of Security Deposit:
  • When to use: If your landlord fails to return the deposit within 30 days after move-out, you may send a formal written request.
  • There is no state-issued form, but the law supports submitting a dated and signed letter requesting return and itemization of your deposit (see MCA § 70-25-201).

Which State Agency Handles Rental Issues?

Montana’s primary tribunal for landlord-tenant disputes is the Montana Justice Court. Justice Court can handle rent deposit disputes, unlawful evictions, and other tenant complaints. For statewide housing policy and guidance, refer to the Montana Department of Commerce, Housing Division.

1. Do Montana renters have any protections against large rent hikes?
   Currently, Montana state law does not limit the amount a landlord can raise rent. However, landlords must provide at least 30 days' written notice for any increase and cannot raise rent in a discriminatory or retaliatory manner.
2. How soon must my security deposit be returned?
   Your landlord must return your security deposit within 30 days after you move out. If deductions are made, you must receive an itemized statement detailing each deduction.
3. Does Montana have an official rent increase form?
   No state-issued form is required. The law only mandates that notice must be provided in writing with 30 days' advance notice. Landlords may use their own letter, or renters can request written documentation.
4. Where can I file a complaint if my deposit is not returned?
   If your landlord does not return your security deposit or provide an itemized list of deductions, you can file a case in the local Justice Court in your county.
5. Can my lease include limits on rent increases?
   Yes. Lease agreements may state when and how rent can be increased. Always review your lease carefully and ask for clarification if any terms are unclear.

Summary and Key Takeaways

• Montana does not have rent control or rent caps, but 30 days’ written notice is required before rent increases.
• Security deposits are unregulated by a set limit but must be returned with itemization within 30 days after move-out.
• Disputes over rent or security deposits can be addressed in local Justice Courts.

It’s important to keep written records, review your lease terms closely, and use state resources for support if issues arise.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Montana Department of Commerce, Housing Division – For rental assistance and housing programs
• Montana Justice Court Directory – For filing complaints and settling disputes
• Montana Legal Services Association: Tenant Rights – Plain language guides and legal aid (nonprofit supported by state funds)
• Montana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (MCA Title 70, Chapter 24) – Full legislation text

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1. Montana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act of 1977 (MCA Title 70, Chapter 24)
2. Montana Security Deposit Law (MCA Title 70, Chapter 25)
3. Montana Department of Commerce, Housing Division
4. Montana Justice Court

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