Cambridge vs Newton
How do rent control rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Newton, MA?
Cambridge and Newton have similar restriction levels.
Cambridge, MA
Middlesex County
Cambridge has NO rent control. Massachusetts banned rent control statewide in 1994 via ballot question codified in MGL c.40P, and Cambridge cannot restore rent control without state legislative action.
View full Cambridge rules →Newton, MA
Middlesex County
Rent control is prohibited statewide in Massachusetts under MGL Chapter 40P (the 1994 Rent Control Prohibition Act). Newton cannot impose rent caps, though inclusionary zoning and affordability programs exist.
View full Newton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Newton |
|---|---|---|
| Rent control | Prohibited statewide | - |
| Ban authority | MGL c.40P 1994 | - |
| Effective | January 1, 1995 | - |
| Alternative | Inclusionary zoning, AHO | Affordability programs |
| Notice for increase | 30 days minimum | - |
| State Law | - | MGL c.40P |
| Year Enacted | - | 1994 |
| Rent Caps | - | Prohibited |
| Inclusionary Threshold | - | 7+ units, 15% |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cambridge FAQ
Does Cambridge have rent control?
No. Massachusetts banned rent control statewide in 1994 via MGL c.40P and Cambridge cannot enforce rent control without state action.
How much notice for a rent increase?
For a tenancy at will, MGL c.186 s.12 requires at least 30 days written notice, or one rental period, whichever is longer.
Newton FAQ
Can Newton limit my landlords rent increase?
No. Massachusetts law (MGL c.40P) prohibits local rent control. Your landlord can raise rent at lease renewal by any amount with proper notice under MGL Chapter 186.
What tenant protections exist in Newton?
State landlord-tenant law under MGL Chapter 186 governs security deposits, required notices, habitability, and evictions. Newton offers mediation and relocation assistance but cannot regulate rent amounts.
Compare other topics
See how Cambridge and Newton compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool