North Dakota Rent Price Averages & Caps: 2025 Legal Guide

Understanding what you can expect to pay for rent—and how much it can legally increase—can help you make better housing decisions in North Dakota. This guide explains average rent prices, the current legal landscape on rent control and increases, and which forms and resources are available to renters. Everything here reflects the latest available information so you can make informed choices and protect your rights as a tenant.

Typical Rent Prices in North Dakota (2025 Overview)

North Dakota's rental market remains relatively stable, but prices vary by city and apartment size.

• Bismarck: One-bedroom apartments average $900–$1,050/month
• Fargo: One-bedroom apartments usually range $950–$1,150/month
• Statewide Average: According to the most recent American Community Survey from the U.S. Census Bureau, median gross rent in North Dakota is $875/month¹

Keep in mind, rent can depend on property age, amenities, and location. Studios and two-bedrooms will differ in price.

Is There Rent Control or a Rent Cap in North Dakota?

Currently, there is no statewide rent control or specific maximum rent increase cap in North Dakota. That means landlords can set rent and raise it by any amount, as long as they follow notice rules and the terms of your lease.

• North Dakota law does not restrict how much landlords can increase rent²
• Local governments in North Dakota are also not permitted to enact rent control ordinances²

This makes it important for tenants to review their lease agreement and watch for proper notice of increases.

Required Notice for Rent Increases

Landlords must give notice before any rent increase, depending on your rental type:

• Month-to-month lease: At least 30 days’ written notice (see NDCC § 47-16-07)
• Fixed-term lease: Rent increases can’t apply until your current lease ends, unless your contract allows earlier changes

Security Deposits and Other Fees

Security deposits remain strictly limited under North Dakota law:

• General rule: Deposit cannot exceed one month's rent (except for certain pet deposits or special circumstances)
• Must be returned within 30 days after you vacate, minus any lawful deductions (NDCC § 47-16-07.1 and 16-07.2)

Landlords can also charge late fees—but these must be clearly listed in your lease.

Official Tribunal and Tenancy Law in North Dakota

Renters and landlords resolve disputes through North Dakota State Courts, specifically in district court for eviction and rent matters. There is no special landlord-tenant board.

Key legislation: North Dakota Century Code Chapter 47-16: Landlord and Tenant covers rental agreements, notices, fees, and tenant rights.

Useful Official Forms for Renters

• Summons and Complaint (Eviction Action)
  • Form use: If you receive an eviction notice due to nonpayment or rent disputes, your landlord will file this form to begin court proceedings.
  • Download and instructions (ND Courts)
  • Renter tip: If you wish to respond or challenge an eviction, you need to file an Answer using the provided court forms.
• 30-Day Notice to Terminate Month-to-Month Lease
  • Form use: When ending a month-to-month lease or responding to a landlord's rent increase notice.
  • While there’s no required statewide form, sample notice letters and procedural guidance are available on the ND Courts Landlord/Tenant Self-Help portal.

How to Respond to a Rent Increase Notice in North Dakota

If your landlord gives notice of a rent increase and you do not wish to accept the new terms, you can:

• Send a written notice to end your tenancy before the increase takes effect (typically using a 30-day notice)
• Negotiate with your landlord if you have concerns about the new amount
• Contact legal aid if you feel the increase is retaliatory or violates your lease agreement

Act promptly if you receive a rent increase notice—waiting too long may limit your options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Does North Dakota have rent control? No, there are no state or city rent control laws in North Dakota. Landlords can set and raise rent, but must follow notice rules.
2. How much can my landlord increase rent at once? There is no legal limit, but month-to-month tenants must get at least 30 days’ written notice before any rent hike.
3. What’s the maximum security deposit a landlord can ask for? Most renters can be charged up to one month’s rent as a security deposit. Some exceptions (such as pets or certain history) may apply.
4. Can my landlord add new fees or increase existing fees? Any fees must be disclosed in your lease. New fees usually can’t be added unless your lease allows changes or at renewal.
5. Where can I file a dispute if I think my landlord acted unfairly? Rental disputes in North Dakota are handled by the state district courts. See the ND Courts Landlord/Tenant Self-Help page for more information.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• No rent caps or rent control in North Dakota—rent can be raised with proper notice.
• Security deposits are limited to one month’s rent, with clear return timelines.
• Use state court resources and official forms to protect your rights if disputes arise.

Staying informed helps you plan for rent changes and avoid misunderstandings with your landlord.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• North Dakota Courts Landlord/Tenant Self-Help – Official guidance, forms, and legal information
• ND Department of Labor and Human Rights – Housing complaints, discrimination, and labor-related housing questions
• Legal Services of North Dakota – Free and reduced-cost legal help for tenants in certain circumstances
• HUD North Dakota Rental Resources – Federal tenant protections and counseling

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1. U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey (2023 release)
2. North Dakota Century Code Chapter 47-16: Landlord and Tenant

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