Renting: Tenants & Landlords · During a tenancy
Rent increases and the statewide rent cap
In this guide
- For covered rentals, increases over 12 months are capped at 5% plus the local cost-of-living change, or 10%, whichever is lower.
- Some rentals are exempt, and many cities have stricter local rent control.
- Month-to-month tenants get 30 days’ notice of an increase of 10% or less, and 90 days’ notice for more.
The statewide cap
The Tenant Protection Act of 2019 limits how much rent can go up for many California rentals. Over any 12-month period, rent can increase by no more than 5% plus the percentage change in the regional cost of living, or 10%, whichever is lower. When a tenant moves out, the landlord can generally set a new starting rent for the next tenant.
Rentals that are generally exempt
- Housing first occupied within the last 15 years (a rolling date)
- Many single-family homes and condominiums not owned by a corporation or real estate investment trust, when the lease includes a specific written notice of the exemption
- A duplex where the owner lives in one unit
- Certain affordable, dormitory and hotel-type housing
Cities and counties with their own rent control ordinances may set lower limits. Local rules can also cover buildings the state law doesn’t.
Notice periods for increases
For month-to-month tenancies, California law requires written notice before a rent increase takes effect. A fixed-term lease usually sets the rent for the whole term.
Figures and time frames
- Statewide cap: 5% plus cost of living, with a 10% maximum in any 12 months
- Notice for an increase of 10% or less: 30 days
- Notice for an increase over 10%: 90 days
- The Tenant Protection Act is currently set to remain in effect until January 1, 2030.
Common questions
How can someone tell if their city has rent control?
City and county housing departments publish their local rules. The Attorney General’s tenant guide also explains where to look.
Official sources for this guide
Keep reading