Los Angeles, CA, December 6, 2025
Southern California renters can expect continued rent increases over the next two years, with some counties like Orange County projected to experience hikes of up to 2.52%. The USC’s Casden Real Estate Economics Forecast indicates that a persistent housing shortage, rising inflation, and new regulatory changes are key factors driving these increases. Renters are encouraged to plan their budgets accordingly and stay informed about market trends to navigate these changes effectively.
Southern California Rents Expected to Keep Rising: Which Counties Will Be Hit Hardest
Los Angeles, CA – Southern California renters can anticipate continued rent increases over the next two years, with certain counties projected to experience higher hikes than others. According to the University of Southern California’s (USC) Casden Real Estate Economics Forecast, rent growth is expected to range from 0.64% in Los Angeles County to 2.52% in Orange County.
Projected Rent Increases by County
The forecast provides the following projections for average annual rent growth through 2027:
- Los Angeles County: 0.64%
- Orange County: 2.52%
- Riverside County: 1.5%
- San Bernardino County: 1.5%
- San Diego County: 1.5%
- Ventura County: 1.5%
Factors Influencing Rent Increases
Several factors contribute to the anticipated rise in rents across Southern California:
- Housing Shortage: A persistent shortage of available housing units is placing upward pressure on rental prices.
- Inflation: Rising costs of living, including utilities and maintenance, are leading landlords to adjust rents accordingly.
- Regulatory Changes: Recent legislative updates, such as the revision of Assembly Bill 246, have introduced new eviction protections, which may influence rental pricing strategies.
Implications for Renters
Renters should be aware of the following:
- Budget Planning: Anticipate modest annual rent increases when planning personal finances.
- Lease Negotiations: Engage in proactive discussions with landlords to secure favorable lease terms.
- Stay Informed: Keep abreast of local housing policies and market trends to make informed decisions.
Conclusion
While rent increases in Southern California are expected to remain moderate over the next two years, certain counties may experience higher hikes due to factors like housing shortages and inflation. Renters are advised to plan accordingly and stay informed about local market conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the projected annual rent increase in Los Angeles County?
The projected annual rent increase in Los Angeles County is 0.64%.
Which county is expected to experience the highest rent increase?
Orange County is expected to experience the highest rent increase, with a projected annual growth of 2.52%.
What factors are contributing to the anticipated rent increases?
Factors contributing to the anticipated rent increases include a persistent housing shortage, rising inflation, and recent regulatory changes affecting rental policies.
How can renters prepare for these rent increases?
Renters can prepare by budgeting for modest annual rent increases, engaging in proactive lease negotiations, and staying informed about local housing policies and market trends.
Summary Table of Rent Projections and Influencing Factors
| County | Projected Annual Rent Increase |
|---|---|
| Los Angeles County | 0.64% |
| Orange County | 2.52% |
| Riverside County | 1.5% |
| San Bernardino County | 1.5% |
| San Diego County | 1.5% |
| Ventura County | 1.5% |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
San Diego County Crime Report: ATM Break-In and Human Remains Discovery
Steady Rent Increases Loom for Southern California
Brown Pelican Feeding Frenzy in Morro Bay Offers Hope for Species’ Recovery
Coronado Golf Cart Parade Spreads Holiday Cheer
Richline Transportation Expands Routes to LAX
Phil Wickham’s Christmas Tour Sings Joy in San Diego
Escondido Police Identify Officers Involved in Shooting Incident
Tragic Death of La Mesa Police Officer
U.S. Gas Prices Experience Notable Decline
San Diego County Faces Alarming Spike in Flu Cases Amid Low Vaccination Rates
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
