Security Deposit Limits

Below are the general limits regarding how much a landlord can legally require you to provide as a security deposit. Use this as a security deposit resource, but always check your state and local laws for any modifications, as there are often exceptions to these general rules (such as if you have pets; are renting for a long duration; the apartment is furnished; or you plan to use certain types of furniture, such as waterbeds).

One Month's Rent : Alabama, Delaware (leases of 12 months or more), District of Columbia, Hawaii, Kansas, Massachusetts, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico (leases of 12 months or less), North Dakota, Pennsylvania (unless it's your first year of renting, then the limit is two months), Rhode Island, South Dakota.

One and a Half Month's Rent : Arizona, Michigan, New Jersey, North Carolina.

Two Month's Rent : Alaska (where the rent is under $2000), California, Connecticut (under the age of 62), Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Missouri.

Three Month's Rent : Nevada.

No Limit : Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.