Jersey City · Rent increases

Can my landlord raise my rent in Jersey City?

Yes, by at most 4% a year.

Why, and the exact law

The city posts a CPI figure each month; the lower of it and 4% applies.

From Jersey City, read Oct 6, 2026.
Show the law

“§ 260-3 of the Jersey City Rent Control Ordinance prohibits property owners from imposing or collecting a rent increase greater than the applicable percentage posted or 4%, whichever is less, in properties that are subject to rent control.”

Jersey City Code ch. 260 · jerseycitynj.gov · found word for word in the source

Check your increase

We don't keep what you type.

Who can help

  1. Ask the Jersey City Office of Landlord/Tenant RelationsFree counselors explain your options, by phone or in person.Jersey City Office of Landlord/Tenant Relations
  2. Get free legal helpIf your landlord won't fix it.Legal Services of New Jersey
  3. Find a lawyerReferral service of the State Bar.New Jersey State Bar
Every rule here, word for word (2)

State law applies here too. Where both cover a rental, the stricter city rule usually wins; each rule below says so.

Jersey City lawDepends on the building

Jersey City Rent Control Ordinance

Can my landlord raise my rent?

Yes, by at most 4% a year.

The city posts a CPI figure each month; the lower of it and 4% applies.

Depends on the year the building was built or the number of units.

Who it covers

  • Buildings with 5 or more units.
  • Not buildings less than 30 years old.
  • Exemptions: All 1-4 unit properties exempt; other exemptions through a Rent Control Exemption Request. State law exempts new multiple dwellings for 30 years (N.J.S.A. 2A:42-84.5).
The law, word for word

“§ 260-3 of the Jersey City Rent Control Ordinance prohibits property owners from imposing or collecting a rent increase greater than the applicable percentage posted or 4%, whichever is less, in properties that are subject to rent control.”

Jersey City Code ch. 260 · jerseycitynj.gov · Retrieved Oct 6, 2026

Quote checked word for word

No other rule found

New Jersey has no state law that establishes, governs or caps rents; rent control is left to municipal ordinances.

The law, word for word

“The State of New Jersey has no laws that establish, govern or control rents …”

nj.gov · Retrieved Oct 1, 2026

Quote checked word for word

More about Jersey City

Rental law by cityWhat's changing in Jersey City

Information about the law, not legal advice.