Average Rent Increase in Georgia, The Law & How to Avoid

At some point, nearly every tenant will encounter a rent increase. It happens. Rent hikes are common and sometimes necessary to keep up with inflation, market fluctuations, and property expenses. While it is important to keep this in mind, it can help landlords to know just what is fair and appropriate in their market. And it certainly helps tenants to know just what they can expect when it comes to an average rent increase in Georgia and their specific locality.

Our Atlanta property management services include working with landlords and property owners, advising on how best to navigate these tricky waters. Rent prices generally increase over time (that’s just inflation), but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a careful way of increasing rent that aligns with the local market and other rental properties in the region. Being familiar with your city and state’s real estate market is very important. Here we will go over a number of topics to consider when thinking about the option of increasing rent (and for tenants, what they can reasonably expect).

Table of Contents

• Why Does Rent Increase?
• How Can Tenants Avoid Rent Increases?
• Average Rent Increase in Georgia
• Georgia Rent Increase Notice
• Look to BMG for Help

Why Does Rent Increase?

Rent increases can happen for a variety of reasons; there’s no one-size-fits-all explanation. In recent years, factors like the pandemic have created circumstances where raising rent became necessary. Additionally, rent hikes often occur when landlords or property managers need extra funds for repairs, ongoing maintenance, or significant property improvements.

A common driver of rent increases in Georgia is the broader economy combined with the natural appreciation of housing values, both nationwide and in local markets. In recent years, especially during and after the pandemic, rental rates in Georgia have climbed to new highs. Simultaneously, a growing number of people—especially millennials—are choosing to rent rather than buy, further increasing demand and pushing up rental prices.

While various economic and market factors contribute to rising rents in Georgia, tenants can take proactive steps to minimize the likelihood of a rent increase.

How Can Tenants Avoid Rent Increases?

Unfortunately, it can be challenging to avoid rent increases, as you can’t control the housing market or inflation rates. However, changes in the market aren’t the only cause of rent increases. For instance, some landlords charge more for increased rental business costs or extensive property repairs or renovations.

Although rent increases are sometimes inevitable, here are a few ways tenants can avoid them.

• Act as a Responsible Tenant – It seems simple, but you would be surprised how many people need to hear it. Being a responsible tenant can have a big impact while renting a property. Landlords appreciate tenants who follow lease agreements, care for the property, and pay rent on time.
• Request a Longer Lease – Give this a try. Consider asking for a longer lease from the start. It could go a long way! Long-term tenants are often seen as less of a risk, making landlords less likely to raise rent.
• Pay Rent Promptly – Landlords like tenants who consistently pay rent on time and in full. Become the model tenant, and the average rent increase in Georgia may just be better for you because you bring goodwill wherever you live. By consistently paying on time, you show reliability, which might make your landlord less likely to raise your rent.

Average Rent Increase in Georgia

Rentals in Georgia, particularly in cities like Atlanta, have become increasingly expensive. As of December 2024, the average rent in Atlanta is approximately $1,586 per month, which is about 2% higher than the national average of $1,560. In 2023, the median rent in Georgia was $1,950, reflecting a slight increase from the previous year (about 21% from the previous year).

These rising rental costs have led to a higher percentage of residents allocating more than 30% of their income toward rent and utilities. While the average rent increase in Georgia has been rising, they remain more affordable compared to some other states. For instance, the average rent in Georgia is $1,530, slightly below the national average of $1,645.

Overall, while Georgia’s rental market has experienced growth, it continues to offer relatively affordable options compared to many other regions in the United States.

Georgia Rent Increase Notice

In Georgia, it’s important for landlords to provide proper notice if there is a rent increase. State laws typically dictate the required notice period, but the specifics can vary depending on the type of housing and the terms of the lease. Georgia currently has no rent control ordinances on rent adjustments. Being familiar with Georgia’s rental laws is recommended to make sure you are abiding on current regulations.

If you need examples of rent increase notices, consulting an attorney is highly recommended to makes sure that the notice adheres to Georgia’s legal requirements. Unlike other states, Georgia’s rent increase laws have their own unique regulations (and in some cases, none at all). For additional resources, you can explore local organizations or legal aid services specializing in Georgia’s real estate market, who might be able to help you with making sure any notices are done according to local laws.

Look to BMG for Help

If you are wrestling with rent increase questions, there are places to look. Don’t hesitate to talk to a BMG property manager about how we handle things. Our team of dedicated property management professionals is here to help you find your ideal situation and work through sporadic adjustments to rental rates.

Contact Us Today!

If you’re a rental owner and need help setting fair rental prices, look to us! Bay Property Management Group offers comprehensive rental management services, from marketing and tenant screening to inspections and maintenance. Contact us today to learn more about our property management services in Atlanta, Boston, Baltimore, Philadelphia, Northern Virginia, Atlanta, Washington, DC., and elsewhere.