Rent Control: Cambridge vs Somerville
How do rent control rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Somerville, MA?
Cambridge and Somerville 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 →Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Rent control is prohibited statewide under MGL c.40P. Somerville has advocated for and passed local measures, but none can be enforced without state action.
View full Somerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| Rent control | Prohibited statewide | - |
| Ban authority | MGL c.40P 1994 | - |
| Effective | January 1, 1995 | - |
| Alternative | Inclusionary zoning, AHO | - |
| Notice for increase | 30 days minimum | - |
| State law | - | MGL c.40P prohibits rent control |
| Local authority | - | None without state action |
| Notice to raise rent | - | 30 days for tenants at will |
| Security deposit | - | MGL c.186 s.15B caps at 1 month |
| Habitability | - | 105 CMR 410 enforced |
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.
Somerville FAQ
Can my Somerville landlord raise the rent any amount?
Yes under current Massachusetts law, with at least 30 days written notice for tenants at will. Leased tenants cannot have rent raised mid-lease. Retaliation for complaints is illegal.
Is rent stabilization coming to Somerville?
The City Council has supported home-rule petitions seeking state authorization, but rent control cannot be enforced locally until and unless the Massachusetts Legislature repeals or amends MGL c.40P.
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