Cambridge · Massachusetts
Cambridge, MA Landlord Laws 2026
Every housing law that applies to Cambridge landlords — security deposits, eviction rules, rent increases, and more. Updated for 2026.
Based on Massachusetts state law + Cambridge local ordinances.
Cambridge Rental Market in 2026
$2,941
median 2BR rent
118,214
population
$2,941
max security deposit
Cambridge landlords must comply with Massachusetts state landlord-tenant laws as well as local rent control ordinances. At a median 2-bedroom rent of $2,941/month, understanding deposit caps, notice periods, and eviction rules can save you thousands in penalties.
Local Housing Market Data
The HUD Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom in Cambridge is $2,941/month, which affects Section 8 voucher amounts and affordable housing calculations.
Key Takeaways for Cambridge Landlords
- Security deposit: Capped at 1 month's rent ($2,941 at median rent). Must return within 30 days or face penalties up to $8,823.
- Local rent control: Cambridge has additional local regulations beyond state law. See details below.
Many Cambridge landlords weigh these compliance costs against hiring a property manager. How much does a property manager cost?
Massachusetts Laws That Apply in Cambridge
Massachusetts General Laws — Tenancy
Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 186, §1 et seq.
Governs residential tenancies, including eviction, lease terms, and tenant protections.
Massachusetts Security Deposit Law
Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 186, §15B
Strict security deposit statute requiring interest, proper escrow, and detailed receipts. Among the strictest in the U.S.
Cambridge Landlord Law Topics
Click any topic below for detailed Cambridge-specific rules, deadlines, penalties, and free compliance tools.
Security Deposit Laws
Cambridge-specific rules and penalties →
Eviction Process & Notice Requirements
Cambridge-specific rules and penalties →
Rent Increase Laws
Cambridge-specific rules and penalties →
Landlord Entry & Access Rules
Cambridge-specific rules and penalties →
Maintenance & Habitability Standards
Cambridge-specific rules and penalties →
Late Fee Limits
Cambridge-specific rules and penalties →
Lease Termination & Renewal
Cambridge-specific rules and penalties →
Fair Housing Protections
Cambridge-specific rules and penalties →
Tenant Screening Rules
Cambridge-specific rules and penalties →
Required Landlord Disclosures
Cambridge-specific rules and penalties →
Rent Control
Cambridge-specific rules and penalties →
Property Registration Requirements
Cambridge-specific rules and penalties →
Get your free Cambridge compliance snapshot — no account required.
Check Your Property's ComplianceCambridge Landlord Calculators
Free tools — no account required.
Don’t Risk Penalties
At Cambridge’s median rent of $2,941/month, a single deposit violation could cost you $8,823+. A wrongful eviction can cost thousands more in court fees, relocation payments, and damages. Know the rules before they cost you.
Don’t risk it. Let LeaseBase track Cambridge compliance for you.
Deposit deadlines, eviction notice periods, rent cap calculations — monitored automatically.
Track Compliance AutomaticallyFree to explore · No credit card required · See pricing
Nearby Cities — Landlord Laws
Own properties in multiple cities? Laws may differ. Check the rules for nearby areas:
Pop. 80,407
Same state laws apply — check for local ordinances
Medford, MAPop. 58,744
Same state laws apply — check for local ordinances
Boston, MAPop. 653,833
Same state laws apply — check for local ordinances
Newton, MAPop. 88,415
Same state laws apply — check for local ordinances
Everett, MAPop. 50,318
Same state laws apply — check for local ordinances
Massachusetts requires landlords to track 30-day deposit deadlines, eviction notice rules, and rent caps.
Property management software automates these compliance deadlines so you never miss one.
Need a lease for your Massachusetts rental? Generate a free Massachusetts lease agreement →
Manage Your Cambridge Rentals with LeaseBase
Everything you need to self-manage rental properties — compliance tracking, rent collection, and more.
Collect rent online & track payments
Tenant ScreeningBackground checks & credit reports
Lease ManagementTemplates, e-sign & renewals
MaintenanceWork orders & vendor management
Free Massachusetts LeaseState-compliant lease generator
Compliance EngineAutomated law tracking & alerts
Check your Cambridge property’s compliance
Track Massachusetts landlord-tenant law compliance, collect rent online, and manage maintenance — all in one platform.
Free to explore · No credit card required
Reviewed by Rachid Abadli
Founder & CEO, LeaseBase · Sacramento landlord · Self-managing since 2019
LeaseBase is a property management platform — not a law firm. Consult an attorney for legal advice specific to your situation.
