Does Baltimore have rent control?

Baltimore does not have local rent control, but Maryland state rules on rent increases may apply.

What is the rent increase cap in Baltimore?

No local cap exists. Maryland state limits may apply to certain properties.

Are any properties exempt from Baltimore rent control?

Common exemptions include single-family homes, new construction (typically 15 years), owner-occupied duplexes, and subsidized housing.

Baltimore, MD Rent Control 2026

Baltimore has no local rent control. Know the rules before your next rent increase.

Rent control applies in Baltimore. Exceeding the cap voids the increase and tenants can recover overpayments plus penalties.

Key Takeaways — Baltimore Rent Control

Key rule: Local Rules Apply
Violation risk: owe back-rent to tenants

Rent Control in Baltimore

Baltimore landlords must follow Maryland state law on rent control. Understanding the specific rules, deadlines, and penalties can prevent costly violations.

$1,857

median 2BR rent

Local Rules Apply

key requirement

Penalty Warning

Violate Maryland rent control rules in Baltimore and you could owe back-rent to tenants. At Baltimore's median rent of $1,857/month, even a single violation adds up fast.

Don’t risk it. Let LeaseBase handle the compliance.

LeaseBase automatically tracks local ordinances, calculates maximum increases, and generates compliant notices — so you never miss a deadline.

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More Baltimore Landlord Laws

Security Deposit Laws → Eviction Process & Notice Requirements → Rent Increase Laws → Landlord Entry & Access Rules → Maintenance & Habitability Standards → Late Fee Limits → Lease Termination & Renewal → Fair Housing Protections → Tenant Screening Rules → Required Landlord Disclosures → Property Registration Requirements →

Rent Control in Nearby Cities

Own properties in multiple cities? Rules may differ locally:

Laurel, MD
Pop. 29,400 Sykesville, MD
Pop. 4,412 Annapolis, MD
Pop. 40,552 Bel Air, MD
Pop. 10,490 Bowie, MD
Pop. 57,254

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How we researched this page: Rent control rules are based on Maryland state statutes. Rent data comes from HUD Fair Market Rents (FY2026) for Baltimore city. Last updated: August 2026.

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Reviewed by Rachid Abadli

Founder & CEO, LeaseBase · Sacramento landlord · Self-managing since 2019

LeaseBase is a property management platform — not a law firm. Consult an attorney for legal advice specific to your situation.