How much notice is required for a rent increase in Chicago?

Illinois requires at least 30 days written notice before raising rent on a month-to-month tenancy. Some local ordinances require longer notice — check Chicago's rules.

Can my landlord raise rent during my lease in Chicago?

Generally no — a fixed-term lease in Illinois locks the rent until the lease ends. Increases usually apply only at renewal or on a month-to-month tenancy with the required 30-day written notice.

What should I do if my Chicago rent increase looks illegal?

Document the notice in writing, calculate the percentage increase, compare to Illinois's notice rule, and contact a local tenant-rights organization or legal-aid clinic. You can also send a written dispute letter citing the statute.

Chicago, IllinoisLast reviewed April 2026

Rent increase rules in Chicago

Q: Is there a cap on rent increases in Chicago?

Illinois has no statewide cap on rent increases. Whether Chicago has a local rent-stabilization ordinance depends on local law — Illinois bans local rent control statewide, so Chicago has no rent cap. The Residential Landlord-Tenant Ordinance (RLTO) requires 30 days notice for tenancies under 6 months, 60 days for 6 months–3 years, and 120 days for 3+ years.

Illinois bans local rent control statewide, so Chicago has no rent cap. The Residential Landlord-Tenant Ordinance (RLTO) requires 30 days notice for tenancies under 6 months, 60 days for 6 months–3 years, and 120 days for 3+ years.

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Free legal help in Illinois

Walk through three quick steps to find the right tenant-rights program for your situation.

What do you need help with?

When you call, ask about: a tenant intake appointment

Say: "I'm a tenant and need help understanding my rights and options."

Bring: your lease, recent rent receipts, and any letters or notices from your landlord.

Tip: swipe left/right on mobile to move between steps.

State listings sourced from the federal Legal Services Corporation (LSC) grantee directory. Educational information, not legal advice or endorsement.

Common questions about Illinois rent

Can my landlord raise my rent in Illinois? →How much can rent be raised in Illinois? →How much notice is required for a rent increase in Illinois? →Is a 10% rent increase legal in Illinois? →Can my landlord raise rent without notice in Illinois? →Can my landlord raise rent during my lease in Illinois? →

State rules that apply in Chicago

Illinois doesn't cap rent, and state law blocks cities from doing it — though that rule is being debated. In Chicago, you get 30 days' notice for tenancies under 6 months, and longer notice if you've lived there longer. Required notice: 30 days.

Local resource

Chicago RLTO (opens in new tab)

State source

765 ILCS 825 (Rent Control Preemption Act) (opens in new tab)

Educational information, not legal advice. Consult a local attorney or tenant-rights organization for your specific situation.

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