Vermont Rent Caps and Average Prices: 2025 Renter’s Guide

Renters in Vermont need up-to-date information on average rent prices, legal rent caps, and deposit limits. Knowing your rights under Vermont laws protects you against unexpected rent increases and helps you navigate payment disputes. Below, we break down current Vermont rent data, legal protections, and where to get help if you have concerns about your landlord or lease.

Current Average Rent Prices Across Vermont (2025)

According to the latest data from the Vermont Housing Finance Agency:

• 1-bedroom apartment: $1,200 – $1,400 per month
• 2-bedroom apartment: $1,500 – $1,700 per month
• 3-bedroom apartment: $1,800 – $2,100 per month
• Rural areas: Typically lower, averaging $900 – $1,200 for a 1-bedroom
• Burlington & Chittenden County: Highest average rents statewide

Rental prices can vary by city and building. Check with the Vermont Housing Finance Agency’s rental housing statistics for current detailed data.

Does Vermont Have Rent Control or Caps?

Currently, Vermont law does not set statewide rent control or specific rent caps for most market-rate private rentals. This means landlords are allowed to set and raise rents, provided they follow state notice and anti-discrimination rules.

However, cities like Burlington may have local ordinances about rent stabilization. Always check your local Housing Office for city-specific rent restrictions.

Rules for Rent Increases in Vermont

• Notice Requirement: Landlords must provide at least 60 days’ written notice before raising rent on month-to-month tenancies, per Vermont Statutes, Title 9, Chapter 137 - Residential Rental Agreements.
• Term Leases: During a fixed-term lease, rent cannot be raised until the lease ends, unless the agreement allows for an increase.

If you receive a notice of a rent increase, make sure it’s in writing and delivered within the correct notice period. If you need to dispute an unfair or retaliatory increase, see the action steps below.

Security Deposit Law and Fees (2025)

Under Vermont law:

• No set statutory cap on security deposits, but most landlords request one month’s rent
• Deposits must be returned within 14 days after you move out (21 days if you move out in winter and the dwelling is seasonal)
• Landlords must provide an itemized statement if making deductions

For details, review the Vermont Security Deposit Law, 9 V.S.A. § 4461.

Official Vermont Rental Forms Renters Should Know

• Termination of Tenancy Notice (No Official Form Number): Used by landlords to provide required written notice for rent increases or to end a tenancy. For guidance, see the Vermont Attorney General's Rental Agreements & Tenants’ Rights Guide.
  Example: If your landlord raises the rent, they must deliver a 60-day written notice using this format. You should keep a copy for your records.
• Vermont Small Claims Complaint Form: For renters who want to sue for the return of a security deposit. Access the form via the Vermont Judiciary site.
  Example: If your deposit is not returned on time, complete and file this form with the court to request your money back.

How to Respond to Rent Increases or Deposit Problems

If you’re facing a rent increase or security deposit issue, here’s what you can do:

• Ask your landlord for clarification in writing about any increase or charge
• Keep copies of all communication and notices
• If you believe an increase is retaliatory (e.g., after a complaint), contact the Vermont Department of Housing & Community Development
• For deposit disputes, write a formal demand letter and consider filing a complaint in Small Claims Court if there’s no resolution

Who Oversees Vermont Rental Laws?

The Vermont Department of Housing & Community Development oversees rental housing issues. Courts (specifically Small Claims and Civil Division) hear landlord-tenant disputes.

All Vermont renters are protected by the Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (9 V.S.A. Chapter 137)^[1].

Frequently Asked Questions (Vermont Rent)

1. Can my landlord raise the rent by any amount?
   Vermont has no state rent cap, but the landlord must provide at least 60 days’ written notice. Excessive increases may be challenged if they are in retaliation or violate discrimination laws.
2. How soon should I get my security deposit back?
   Vermont landlords must return your deposit within 14 days after you move out, or 21 days for certain seasonal rentals.
3. Are there any cities in Vermont with rent control?
   Burlington considers local rent stabilization ordinances, but Vermont state does not set rent caps. Check with your city office for local rules.
4. Who can I contact if I think my rights have been violated?
   Contact the Vermont Department of Housing & Community Development or your local courthouse for help.
5. What is the maximum security deposit?
   There’s no state maximum, but most landlords request one month’s rent to remain competitive and fair.

Conclusion: Vermont Renters—Key Takeaways

• Vermont does not have statewide rent caps, so check for proper notice on increases
• Security deposits are typically one month’s rent and must be returned within 14 days (exceptions apply)
• Keep records, use official forms, and know where to seek help for disputes

Staying informed empowers you to act quickly if rent or deposit problems arise.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Department of Housing & Community Development – Rental regulations and complaint submission
• Vermont Judiciary – Access small claims and tenancy dispute forms
• Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity (CVOEO) – Vermont Tenants – Free renter advice and support
• Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (9 V.S.A. Chapter 137) – Full state rental legislation

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1. See Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (9 V.S.A. Chapter 137)
2. Security deposit timing requirements: 9 V.S.A. § 4461
3. Small Claims information: Vermont Judiciary – Small Claims

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