Is Your Rent Fair? Free Rent Checker
Compare your rent to HUD Fair Market Rent for your state and bedroom count. Find out if you’re paying above, below, or at market rate.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) sets Fair Market Rents annually for every metro area. FMR represents the 40th percentile of gross rents for standard-quality rental units.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Fair Market Rent (FMR)?
Fair Market Rent is a standard set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) each year. It represents the 40th percentile of gross rents for standard-quality rental units in a given area. FMR is used to determine Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) payment amounts.
Is my landlord allowed to charge more than Fair Market Rent?
Yes. Fair Market Rent is a benchmark, not a legal cap. Landlords in most states can charge whatever the market will bear. However, if you’re in a rent-controlled city (like New York, San Francisco, or Los Angeles), local laws may limit how much rent can increase.
What should I do if my rent is significantly above FMR?
First, check if your city has rent control or stabilization laws. If it does, your landlord’s increase might be illegal. Even without rent control, you can negotiate with your landlord by showing FMR data and comparable listings in your area.
How often does HUD update Fair Market Rents?
HUD publishes new Fair Market Rent figures every federal fiscal year, typically effective October 1. The data is based on American Community Survey (ACS) estimates and local rental market surveys.
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DepositHawk is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Information and documents are for informational purposes only. No attorney-client relationship is created. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation. Fair Market Rent data is based on HUD FY2025 estimates. Actual rents vary significantly by city, neighborhood, and property condition.