New Hampshire Rent Price Guide: 2025 Caps and Tenant Rights

Understanding your rights and responsibilities regarding rent prices and increases in New Hampshire is crucial for a smooth renting experience. The state's rental market continues to change, and guidance on rent caps, fees, and deposit limits helps empower tenants. This guide reviews the latest information and laws renters need to feel confident in 2025.

Average Rent Prices in New Hampshire (2025)

Rent prices vary widely depending on location, apartment size, and property amenities. According to the New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority (NHHFA), the following are average statewide rents as of early 2025:

• One-bedroom apartment: $1,350/month
• Two-bedroom apartment: $1,570/month
• Three-bedroom apartment: $1,940/month

Larger cities and towns (like Manchester or Nashua) often see higher average rents than rural areas. Always research local rates before signing a new lease.

Are There Rent Caps or Rent Control in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire currently does not have statewide rent control or rent cap laws. Landlords can generally set or increase rents as they see fit, except where limited by specific lease agreements.

• No legal maximum for annual rent increases at the state level
• Landlords must typically give at least 30 days’ written notice for any rent increase on month-to-month tenancies (RSA 540:1)
• Some municipalities or federally-subsidized housing may have or enforce rent limits or increase caps

Fees and Security Deposit Rules

Renters should know which fees are legal and how much landlords can require upfront. State law sets specific limits and rights around security deposits and certain fees:

• Security deposit maximum: No more than one month’s rent or $100 (RSA 540-A:6), whichever is greater
• Deposits must be returned within 30 days of tenancy ending
• Landlords must provide a written list of any deductions if withholding part of the deposit
• Application fees are not specifically regulated by state law, but must be reasonable and disclosed

For federally-assisted (HUD) properties, additional rules may apply—check with your property or the HUD New Hampshire Resources.

Notice Requirements for Rent Increases

Landlords must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before any rent increase goes into effect for tenants on month-to-month rental agreements. This notice must be delivered to the tenant or posted as outlined in RSA 540:1.

• Fixed-term (e.g., one-year) leases: Rent generally remains fixed until the lease expires, unless otherwise stated
• Month-to-month tenants: Must receive at least 30 days’ notice before any change in rent amount

Key Forms and How to Use Them

Although New Hampshire does not have standardized state forms for most rent or security deposit matters, there are a few important official notices and resources renters might need:

• Eviction Notice (RSA 540:2 Notice to Quit) – Used by landlords to officially terminate tenancy, including for nonpayment of increased rent. If you believe a rent increase or eviction is unfair or unlawful, you may respond with a written letter and contact the local district court or seek legal help.
  • Example: A landlord wants to raise your month-to-month rent and you cannot pay the new amount. The landlord must provide a written notice to quit according to RSA 540:2.
  • More info and sample forms: NH Judicial Branch Landlord/Tenant Division
• Security Deposit Return Request (Informal Letter) – No specific form, but you can write a letter demanding your security deposit’s return if it’s overdue. Include your forwarding address, lease dates, and request for written explanation of any deductions.

The Tribunal Handling Landlord-Tenant Matters

Residential tenancy disputes—including those over rent increases or security deposits—are handled by the New Hampshire Circuit Court – District Division’s Landlord/Tenant Section. This is where eviction actions and other rental disputes are formally filed.

Citing New Hampshire’s Relevant Tenancy Legislation

Key tenant and landlord protections are spelled out in:

• RSA 540 – "Actions Against Tenants" (rent increases, terminations, notices)
• RSA 540-A – "Prohibited Practices and Security Deposits"

FAQ: Average Rent, Caps, and Your Rights

1. Can my landlord raise my rent as much as they want in New Hampshire?
   Currently, there are no statewide limits on rent increases. Your landlord must give at least 30 days’ written notice for a month-to-month tenancy.
2. Is there a cap on security deposits?
   Yes. Landlords can collect up to one month’s rent or $100 (whichever is greater) as a security deposit.
3. What should I do if my landlord won’t return my deposit after 30 days?
   Send a written request for its return. If there’s no response, you may file in Small Claims Court through the District Division.
4. Can a landlord charge application or processing fees?
   There’s no strict state law on application fees, but they must be reasonable and clearly communicated up front.
5. Where do I go if there is a dispute about rent or fees?
   You may bring your case to the District Division Landlord/Tenant Court.

Key Takeaways for New Hampshire Renters

• No state rent control, but at least 30 days’ notice is needed for rent increases on monthly leases
• Security deposits can’t exceed one month’s rent (or $100)
• For most disputes, contact the NH Circuit Court Landlord/Tenant Section

Staying informed of local rules and timelines keeps renters protected and prepared.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority (NHHFA) – Rent statistics, housing assistance
• NH Circuit Court Landlord/Tenant Division – Forms, instructions, and filing information
• New Hampshire Legal Aid – Free legal information and assistance for tenants
• NH Department of Justice Consumer Protection – For rental fraud or unfair practices

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1. RSA 540 – Actions Against Tenants
2. RSA 540-A – Prohibited Practices, Security Deposits
3. New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority Rent Data
4. NH Circuit Court Landlord/Tenant Section
5. HUD New Hampshire Rental Help

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