Overview
- The Rent Guidelines Board voted 5-4 to preliminarily approve rent increases of 1.75%–4.75% for one-year leases and 4.75%–7.75% for two-year leases.
- The proposed hikes, which affect nearly one million rent-stabilized apartments, will be finalized in a binding vote scheduled for late June following public hearings starting May 22.
- Tenant advocates argue for a rent freeze, citing rising affordability pressures, while landlords highlight a 6.3% increase in operating costs as justification for higher rents.
- The decision has become a pivotal issue in the 2025 Democratic mayoral primary, with most candidates supporting a freeze and Mayor Eric Adams emphasizing the need to protect small property owners.
- If approved, the new rent adjustments would take effect for leases beginning on or after October 1, 2025.