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Boston, MA Rent Control 2026

Boston has no rent control laws. Know the rules before your next rent increase.

Boston does not have rent control. Massachusetts does not impose a statewide rent cap. Landlords may raise rent by any amount with proper written notice. Retaliatory increases are prohibited.

Key Takeaways — Boston Rent Control

  • Rent control: No state or local rent control
  • Rent increases: No cap — proper notice required

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Rent Control in Boston

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

$2,941

median 2BR rent

Boston-Specific Rules

Boston has local regulations that go beyond Massachusetts state law:

Massachusetts eliminated rent control statewide via ballot initiative in 1994. Boston previously had rent control (1970-1994) but it was removed by state referendum. Boston has no local rent control. Multiple efforts to restore it at the state level have been introduced but not passed.

Penalty Warning

Violate Massachusetts rent control rules in Boston and you could owe back-rent to tenants. At Boston's median rent of $2,941/month, even a single violation adds up fast.

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How we researched this page: Rent control rules are based on Massachusetts state statutes. Rent data comes from HUD Fair Market Rents (FY2026) for Suffolk County. 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.

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