If you rent a place in New Mexico or plan to, it’s important to understand how rent increases work in 2025. There’s no state-wide rent control, so landlords can raise rent—but they must follow clear rules from state law.
This guide breaks down what tenants and landlords need to know about notices, limits, fixed leases, and when increases can be unfair or illegal.
How Much Can Rent Increase?
In New Mexico, landlords can raise rent by any amount because there’s no cap on rent hikes.
However, they must respect the lease terms and federal fairness rules. If a lease says rent stays the same for a year, the landlord can’t change it until the lease expires.
Month-to-month agreements, though, let landlords raise rent more easily—so long as they give proper notice.
Notice Requirements for Rent Increases
Landlords must give written notice before raising rent. How much time depends on the lease:
Month-to-Month Leases
Landlords must give at least 30 days’ written notice. That means tenants get a month’s time to prepare or move.
Fixed-Term Leases (e.g., one-year lease)
Rent can’t change during the lease unless the lease itself says so. If it doesn’t, the landlord can only raise rent when the lease term ends, and they should give notice 30 days before.
Mobile Home Park Tenancies
These often need 60 days’ notice, but local rules may set different requirements—so check what your city or county says.
Can a Landlord Raise Rent By $300?
Yes—if the landlord follows the rules. There is no state rule stopping a $300 increase. But they must:
- Give the required written notice (30 or 60 days), and
- Not break any lease terms or use the increase in a discriminatory or unfair way.
When a Rent Increase is Illegal
Landlords in New Mexico must obey the Fair Housing Act and state tenant protections. Rent increases become illegal if they:
- Are based on race, religion, gender identity, disability, or other protected traits.
- Are done to punish tenants who assert their rights (like asking for repairs or reporting violations).
- Involve threats or attempts to evict tenants unfairly.
If you think your rent increase is unfair or illegal, you can seek help from legal aid groups, HUD, or fair housing organizations.
How to Secure Fixed Rent
Want your rent to stay the same? Sign a fixed‑term lease with clear rent terms—like a one‑year lease with one set rent amount. If the lease mentions rent review only after the term, rent can’t change during it. Always read and understand your lease before signing.
Summary of Rent Hike Rules
| Lease Type | Max Rent Increase | Written Notice Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Month-to-Month | Unlimited | 30 days |
| Fixed-Term (no clause) | Unlimited | At least 30 days before end |
| Mobile Home Park Tenancy | Unlimited | Usually 60 days (local rules may vary) |
New Mexico lets landlords raise rent without a cap—but only if they follow the rules. Tenants should keep track of lease terms, notice deadlines, and fair‑housing protections.
If landlords break these rules, tenants have rights and legal help is available. Knowing all this helps renters stay in control of their housing choices and protect themselves from surprise rent hikes.
