California rent cap updates for 2025–2026: What tenants need to know
California’s statewide rent caps under AB 1482 have been updated for August 2025–July 2026. Learn the new limits for Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Riverside, and other counties, based on the April 2025 CPI.
Since January 1, 2020, most rental properties in California have been covered by the Tenant Protection Act (AB 1482). This law limits how much landlords can raise rent in a 12-month period, tying increases to the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
The formula is straightforward: 5% + April CPI (for your region), capped at 10%.
The CPI data for April 2025 sets the allowable increases for the period August 1, 2025 – July 31, 2026. Renters across California should know the updated figures to ensure any increase they receive complies with state law.
New Rent Caps: August 2025 – July 2026
Here are the maximum rent increases allowed under state law this year, depending on where you live:
| Region | CPI (Apr 2025) | Max Increase (Aug ’25 – Jul ’26) |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles & Orange Counties | 3.0% | 8.0% |
| San Diego County | 3.8% | 8.8% |
| Riverside & San Bernardino Counties | 2.5% | 7.5% |
| San Francisco Bay Area (SF, Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, San Mateo) |
1.3% | 6.3% |
| All Other Counties | 2.7% | 7.7% |
What These Numbers Mean for Tenants
- Notice required: Landlords must provide at least 30 days’ written notice for increases of 10% or less, and 90 days’ notice if the increase exceeds 10%.
- Applies to most rentals: Single-family homes, condos owned by corporations, and older apartments are generally covered.
- Exemptions include: Units built in the last 15 years, some affordable housing, dormitories, and certain owner-occupied duplexes.
- Local protections may be stronger: Cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Berkeley also have their own rent control laws that may supersede AB 1482.
How to Protect Yourself
- Check the numbers: If your landlord issues a rent increase above the new caps, it may be unlawful.
- Document communications: Always ask for written notice and keep copies.
- Know your rights: You can only be evicted through a court process, and only for “just cause” under AB 1482 if you’ve been in your unit more than one year.
- Get help: Free or low-cost legal support is available through LawHelpCA or your county’s legal aid office.
Resources
- California DOJ Housing Page – overview of tenant rights
- California Courts – Eviction Help – guidance for tenants in eviction cases
Bottom Line
As of August 1, 2025, California tenants are protected by new rent increase caps ranging from 6.3% in the Bay Area to 8.8% in San Diego, with no region allowed to exceed 10%. If you receive a notice that doesn’t match these limits, you have the right to challenge it.
