Oregon Rent Caps and City Rent Control Ordinances Explained

Rent increases and cost of living are top concerns for Oregon renters. In response, the state enforces a cap on rent hikes and some cities have introduced further renter protections. Oregon renters have important rights under the law—understanding how rent caps and city-specific rules work can help you plan, respond, and protect your housing stability.

Statewide Rent Cap: Oregon's Annual Limit on Rent Increases

Since 2019, Oregon has had a unique statewide rent cap, which applies to most rental properties. This law limits how much a landlord can raise your rent each year, protecting tenants from sudden, unaffordable increases. The cap is updated every year—it's set at 10% in 2024, or 7% plus inflation, whichever is lower.

• The rent cap applies to most rental units that are at least 15 years old.
• Newer buildings (built within the last 15 years) are exempt from the cap.
• Special rules apply to government-subsidized (affordable) housing.

If a landlord raises your rent above the allowed cap, you have a right to challenge the increase.

Official Rent Increase Notice Forms

• Notice of Rent Increase (ORS 90.323)
  Landlords must provide at least 90 days' written notice for any rent increase. If you receive a notice, it should state the new rent amount, the date it takes effect, and be delivered according to law.
  Example: If you live in an apartment built before 2009, and your rent goes from $1,000/mo to $1,120/mo in a single year (12% increase), that's above the 10% cap—the notice is invalid.
  See Oregon's rent increase notice rules

Local Ordinances: City-Level Rent Control in Oregon

Most cities in Oregon do not have separate rent control, but some—especially Portland—offer additional rules and protections:

• Portland: Requires landlords to pay relocation assistance if rent is increased by 10% or more within a year, or if certain no-cause evictions occur. This helps tenants manage steep hikes by assisting with moving costs.
  Learn about Portland's Relocation Assistance Program
• Eugene, Salem, and other Oregon cities: Currently do not have additional rent caps beyond the statewide law, but local tenant resources may be available.

Before any increase, check both Oregon landlord-tenant law and your city government for updates.

Key Forms for Oregon Renters

• Notice of Tenants' Rights (Portland)
  Required with any rent increase notice or no-cause termination. This document summarizes tenant rights, local resources, and support for affected renters.
  Download Notice of Tenants’ Rights (Portland)
• Residential Landlord and Tenant Complaint Form
  If you believe your rent was illegally increased or a notice is not valid, you may file a complaint with Oregon's landlord-tenant oversight body.
  Access complaint information (Oregon Landlord-Tenant)

The Oregon Judicial Department (OJD) resolves tenant disputes and eviction cases. For housing law, refer to the Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^[1]

How to Respond If Your Rent is Raised Above the Cap

• Review the rent increase notice for accuracy (amount, date, correct form, 90 days' notice).
• Check if your building qualifies for the cap (15 years or older, not exempt).
• Communicate promptly and in writing if you believe the increase is illegal—alert your landlord with a letter citing the law.
• If the issue is not resolved, file a complaint with the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) or local housing authority.

If you’re unsure if your rent increase is legal, you can contact Oregon’s landlord-tenant hotline or review your city’s official tenant resources for guidance.

FAQ: Oregon Rent Caps and Local Ordinances

1. What is Oregon's current rent cap for 2024?
   The rent cap is 10% or 7% plus inflation, whichever is lower, for most units built 15+ years ago.
2. Does my city have extra rent control rules?
   Only a few Oregon cities (notably Portland) have extra protections, such as relocation assistance. Most cities follow state law.
3. What should I do if my rent is raised more than allowed?
   Ask your landlord to correct the notice in writing. If issues persist, file a complaint or seek help from city resources.
4. How much notice must my landlord give for a rent increase?
   Landlords must provide at least 90 days' written notice with the required form.
5. Who enforces tenant rights for rent increases in Oregon?
   The Oregon Judicial Department (OJD) and local housing authorities handle disputes and eviction cases.

Conclusion: What Oregon Renters Need to Know

• Oregon's statewide rent cap protects many tenants from sudden, large rent increases.
• Some cities—mainly Portland—offer additional help for renters.
• Always check your lease, your city's rules, and state law before responding to a notice.

Knowing your rights under Oregon law can help you confidently manage rent increases and seek help if you need it.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI): Landlord-Tenant Resources
• Oregon Judicial Department (OJD): Housing and Eviction Cases
• Portland Rental Services Office
• Oregon Law Help: Free Legal Aid for Tenants
• Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act

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1. Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90)
2. Oregon Rent Cap Rules and Guidance (2024)
3. City of Portland Renter Relocation Assistance Ordinance
4. Oregon Judicial Department—Housing Cases

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