Mississippi lacks rent control laws in 2026, allowing landlords broad flexibility to raise rents without caps or limits. Landlords must provide proper written notice—typically 30 days for month-to-month tenancies—to implement increases legally. Tenants should know their rights to avoid surprises amid rising housing costs.
No Rent Caps
State law prohibits rent control ordinances at any level, so no maximum increase percentage exists. Landlords can hike rents by 25%, 50%, or more at lease end or renewal, as market bears, without justification. This applies statewide, including Jackson and Gulf Coast cities.
Notice Requirements
For month-to-month leases, landlords need 30 days’ written notice before hikes take effect—for a June 1 increase, notify by May 1. Fixed-term leases (e.g., one-year) bar mid-term raises unless lease allows; notify 30 days before end for renewal hikes.
Email/text OK if tenant consents; improper notice delays enforcement. Post-expiration holdovers allow 3-day eviction notice plus rent demands.
When Increases Allowed
- Lease end: Any amount for new term after notice.
- Month-to-month: Every 30 days with notice; no frequency limits.
- HUD/subsidized: 30-45 days extra for recertification.
Can’t change active fixed-lease rent without agreement.
Tenant Protections
Retaliatory hikes illegal after repair requests or complaints—prove via timing/evidence for damages. Discriminatory increases banned under fair housing laws. Insufficient notice lets tenants pay old rate until compliant.
No statewide gouging rules outside emergencies.
Negotiation Tips
Review lease for clauses; document communications. Shop comparables via sites like Zillow; offer longer terms for stability. Join tenant groups; consider breaking lease if unaffordable (may owe rent).
Landlords often tie hikes to taxes/insurance rises—ask for breakdowns.
2026 Context
No new caps or notice changes per current statutes; inflation drives averages 5-10% yearly, but varies by market. Check Mississippi AG site for updates; local treasurers aid disputes.
SOURCES:
- https://www.hemlane.com/resources/mississippi-rent-control-laws/
- https://www.steadily.com/blog/how-much-can-a-landlord-raise-rent-in-mississippi
