Tennessee Rent Price Averages & Limits: 2025 Renter Guide

Are you a tenant wondering how much rent you should pay or can expect in Tennessee this year—and if there are limits on rent hikes? Staying informed is vital as rental costs and laws can change each year. In this 2025 guide, we explain Tennessee's average rent prices, whether statewide rent caps exist, and what protections the law gives you as a renter.

Average Rent Prices in Tennessee (2025 Update)

In 2025, rent in Tennessee can vary widely depending on city, region, and apartment type. Here are general state averages based on recent data from the U.S. Census American Housing Survey and state sources:

• One-bedroom apartments: $1,000–$1,150 per month
• Two-bedroom apartments: $1,150–$1,350 per month
• Three-bedroom apartments: $1,350–$1,700 per month
• Major cities like Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville typically have higher rents than rural areas.

Always check local listings or contact your city/county housing authority for the most current average rents in your area.

Are There Rent Caps or Controls in Tennessee?

Tennessee does not have statewide rent control or rent caps. Landlords can set rent and raise it at their discretion, as long as they provide proper notice. However, your lease may specify rules for increases, and there are important notice requirements under state law.

Rent Increase Notice Rules

• Month-to-month leases: Landlords must give a minimum 30 days’ written notice before raising rent (Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, Tenn. Code Ann. § 66-28-402).
• Fixed-term leases: Rent increases generally can't occur until the lease expires, unless the lease specifically allows for mid-lease increases.

Local governments in Tennessee are not permitted to enact their own rent control measures (State Legislation - Preemption of Local Rent Control).

Fees & Security Deposits

Understanding legal security deposit limits and allowable fees helps avoid surprises:

• Security deposit: Tennessee law does not set a statewide maximum, but your lease must specify the amount.
• Return deadline: Your security deposit must be refunded (minus allowable deductions) within 30 days of moving out.
• Itemized deductions: Landlords must provide a written, itemized list of damages or charges if any deductions are made.

For more details, review the Tennessee Landlord-Tenant Handbook.

Official Forms for Renters

• Notice to Landlord of Intent to Move (Move-Out Notice)
  Tennessee Move-Out Notice Form
  When to use: If you plan to end your rental agreement, you must give this written notice as specified in your lease. For example, for a month-to-month, give at least 30 days’ advance notice. Submit the form to your landlord and keep a copy for your records.
• Request for Return of Security Deposit
  While there is no required state form, you can draft a written request (or use the sample letter in the TN Landlord-Tenant Handbook) to formally ask your landlord for your deposit after moving out.

Who Oversees Rent and Tenancy Issues?

The official body responsible for residential tenancy issues in Tennessee is the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance (Landlord-Tenant Program). If you cannot resolve a rent increase or deposit issue with your landlord, you may take your case to your local General Sessions Court.

The main applicable laws are found in the Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Tenn. Code Ann. §§ 66-28-101 et seq.).

Frequently Asked Questions about Tennessee Rent Prices and Limits

1. Can my landlord raise my rent as much as they want in Tennessee?
   Yes, there are no statewide rent caps. However, landlords must give at least 30 days' written notice before raising rent on a month-to-month lease, and they cannot increase rent during a fixed-term lease unless your lease allows it.
2. Is there a limit on security deposits in Tennessee?
   No, state law does not set a maximum amount for security deposits. Your lease agreement should clearly list the amount charged.
3. How do I challenge an unfair rent increase in Tennessee?
   If you believe a rent increase is in violation of your lease, or was made without proper notice, you can file a claim in your local General Sessions Court. Try resolving the issue with your landlord first.
4. Are landlords required to provide a reason for raising rent?
   No, Tennessee landlords are not required to give a reason for a rent increase, but they must provide proper notice in writing for any changes to the rent amount.
5. What forms do I need to move out and get my security deposit back?
   Use the Move-Out Notice form to notify your landlord, and send a written request for your security deposit if not automatically returned to you within 30 days.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• There are no statewide rent caps or controls in Tennessee for 2025; rent hikes require 30 days’ notice for month-to-month leases.
• Security deposits are not capped by Tennessee law, but must be disclosed in your lease and returned within 30 days of moving out, minus itemized deductions.
• Use official notice forms and follow written procedures for rent disputes and moving out to protect your rights.

Staying informed about rental rates, legal notice requirements, and your rights can help you avoid misunderstandings or legal issues with your landlord.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Tennessee Landlord-Tenant Handbook
• General Sessions Courts – for filing landlord-tenant claims
• Department of Commerce & Insurance – Landlord-Tenant Inquiries
• Tennessee Fair Housing – Tenant discrimination resources

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1. For rental law notice requirements and rent adjustments, see: Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Tenn. Code Ann. §§ 66-28-101 et seq.)
2. State preemption of local rent control: HB0919 (2013)
3. Security deposit and return rules: Tennessee Landlord-Tenant Handbook
4. Form links: See official state PDF for move-out notice
5. Tribunal information: General Sessions Court Directory

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