How much can my landlord increase my rent each year in Oregon?

Most Oregon renters are covered by a rent cap of 10% or 7% plus CPI, whichever is lower, per year (2024).

Does rent control apply to all apartments in Oregon?

No. Units built within the past 15 years and certain subsidized properties are exempt from rent control.

How much notice must a landlord give before raising rent?

Oregon law requires landlords to provide at least 90 days of written notice before a rent increase.

What can I do if my landlord raises rent illegally?

Document the increase, notify your landlord in writing, and contact local housing authorities or legal aid for help.

How do I challenge an illegal rent increase?

Start by communicating in writing with your landlord, then use local complaint forms or consult with the Oregon courts if needed.

Understanding Rent Stabilization Laws in Oregon

Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Oregon published June 21, 2025

Renters in Oregon often have questions about how rent stabilization protects them from unexpected and steep rent hikes. Whether you are concerned about a recent rent increase or want to understand your rights as a tenant, Oregon's recent legislation provides statewide standards that aim to balance tenant stability with fair landlord practices.

What Is Rent Stabilization in Oregon?

Oregon enacted statewide rent control and stabilization in 2019, becoming the first U.S. state to do so. The law limits most rent increases for residential tenancies and provides tenants with predictable housing costs while still allowing reasonable adjustments for landlords. Rent stabilization means that landlords can only raise rent by a fixed percentage each year, as defined by Oregon law.

Current Rent Increase Limits

For 2024, most annual rent increases in Oregon are capped at 10% or 7% plus the Consumer Price Index (CPI), whichever is lower.
This applies to most tenancies where the housing is older than 15 years (see Oregon Housing and Community Services).
Certain newer buildings (less than 15 years old) are exempt from the cap.
There are other exceptions for government-subsidized housing and special circumstances; always check Oregon Revised Statutes, Chapter 90 – Residential Landlord and Tenant for details.

These annual caps help tenants budget for housing and avoid sudden, unaffordable rent hikes.

How Are Rent Increases Handled?

Landlords in Oregon must follow clear rules about notifying tenants when raising rent. Proper notice ensures tenants aren’t surprised by increases and have time to consider their options.

Notice must be in writing and delivered at least 90 days before the new rent amount takes effect.
Amount and timing must comply with the above rent cap rules.
Landlords may use their own letters or templates, but tenants have the right to request that any rent increase notice include the dollar amount and date of the change.

Official Notice of Rent Increase Form

While Oregon does not require a single specific form for rent increases, landlords must include all mandatory details:

Current and new rent amount
Effective date (must be at least 90 days after notice is given)
Method of delivery (mail, in-person, or electronic if allowed by the rental agreement)

Example: If you receive a written notice on May 1, the earliest your new rent could take effect is July 30.

For more guidance, visit the Oregon Housing and Community Services Rent Increase FAQ.

Challenging an Illegal Rent Increase

If you believe your rent increase violates state rent stabilization laws, you have options:

First, communicate in writing with your landlord, pointing out the relevant law.
Keep copies of all notices and correspondence.
If the issue remains unresolved, you may file a complaint or seek mediation.

Most residential tenancy disputes in Oregon are handled by the courts, but you can also contact the Oregon Housing and Community Services or a local legal aid office for guidance.

Relevant Forms for Renters

Tenant Complaint Form (varies by city/county): Some jurisdictions provide a form to report unlawful rent increases or landlord actions. Check your city or county housing authority website—Portland Rental Services - Tenant Resources offers more details.
- When to use: If you receive a rent hike above the legal limit or with improper notice, complete the complaint form to alert authorities.
Eviction Summons/Complaint (ORS 105.105): If your landlord tries to evict you after you challenge a rent increase, the court will provide instructions and forms. Find details on the Oregon Judicial Branch Eviction FAQ.
- When to use: File promptly if you need to respond to an eviction based on rent disputes.

Tip: If you’re unsure about your rights, reach out to a local legal aid office before paying an illegal rent increase or moving out. Early action preserves your rights.

Where to Appeal: Oregon's Tribunal for Tenancy Disputes

Oregon residential tenancy cases, including disputes about rent increases and evictions, are heard in the Oregon Judicial Branch (State Courts). The court system provides forms and step-by-step guides for both landlords and tenants.

All rules affecting renters’ rights are outlined in Oregon Revised Statutes Chapter 90: Residential Landlord and Tenant.

FAQ: Common Questions About Rent Stabilization in Oregon

How much can my landlord increase my rent each year in Oregon?
The statewide cap for 2024 is 10%, or 7% plus the Consumer Price Index (CPI), whichever is lower, for most rental properties built more than 15 years ago.
Does rent control apply to all apartments?
No. Properties built within the last 15 years and some government-subsidized housing are exempt. Always verify your property's status with your landlord or local authority.
What notice must my landlord give before raising my rent?
Landlords must provide at least 90 days' written notice before a rent increase takes effect.
What can I do if my landlord raises rent above the legal limit?
Document the increase, notify your landlord in writing about the law, and contact local housing authorities or legal aid if not resolved.
How do I challenge an illegal rent increase in Oregon?
Start with written communication. If it continues, use a tenant complaint form (if offered locally) or consult with the Oregon courts for further steps.

Key Takeaways

Oregon limits annual rent increases with clear maximum percentages for most rentals.
Your landlord must give you at least 90 days' written notice for any rent hike.
Always check your eligibility and use official channels if you need to dispute a rent increase.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Oregon Housing and Community Services – Rent Increase FAQ
Oregon Judicial Branch: Residential Landlord-Tenant Court Information
Oregon Revised Statutes Chapter 90 – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
Oregon Law Help – Tenant and Housing Assistance
Portland Rental Services – For Tenants

Oregon Revised Statutes Chapter 90: Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
Oregon Housing and Community Services: Rent Increase Guidance
Oregon Judicial Branch: Residential Landlord-Tenant Court Information
Portland Housing Bureau: Rental Services Tenant Resources