The phrase, Democracy Dies in Darkness, underscores the potential side effects of defining what qualifies as a ‘reasonable’ rent increase. Implementing such a definition not only limits landlord actions but also sets a benchmark for all landlords.

On June 3, 2026, at 1:54 p.m. EDT, a discussion emerged about how standardizing rent increases might affect urban housing. The concern is that a standardized figure might become the norm, impacting the decision-making of landlords. Previously, these decisions were often based on personal interactions and individual tenant relationships.

Published by the Manhattan Institute, City Journal focuses on urban policy matters. I have been a small landlord in New York for more than ten years. Over this period, I have developed personal relationships with my tenants, knowing each by name. Like many small landlords, I have traditionally managed my properties with flexibility, discretion, and a tendency to avoid raising rents for tenants who have consistently been responsible and respectful neighbors.

This personalized approach allows landlords to consider tenant history and character, choosing rent strategies based on more than market competition alone. A rigid framework might remove this element, leading to increased rents even for tenants who have proven to be valuable over time.