What this calculator does
A large share of the City of Los Angeles' apartments are covered by the Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO), generally buildings with two or more units built on or before October 1, 1978. The Los Angeles Housing Department (LAHD) sets the allowable yearly increase. This calculator applies the percentage you enter and checks a proposed rent.
How to use it
- Enter your current rent.
- Enter the allowable percentage for the date of the increase (3% for 07/01/2025–06/30/2026; confirm later periods with LAHD).
- Add banked increases only if allowed.
- Enter a proposed rent to check it.
The formula
Maximum new rent = current rent × (1 + allowable increase + banked increases). From 07/01/2026, LA uses 90% of CPI with a floor of 1% and a ceiling of 4%, and the old extra 1% to 2% for landlord-paid utilities is no longer allowed.
Worked example
Using the default inputs shown in the calculator above:
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Current rent | $2,400 |
| Annual allowable increase (3.00%) | $72 |
| Banked increases (0.00%) | $0 |
| Maximum new rent | $2,472 |
Maximum new monthly rent: $2,472.00. An increase of up to $72.00 a month (3.00%).
The limit is your current rent times the allowable percentage. Enter a proposed rent to check it against the limit.
How rent stabilization works in Los Angeles
RSO increases are allowed once every 12 months with written notice. Units not covered by the RSO may still fall under California's AB 1482 statewide cap, and unincorporated LA County has its own ordinance. Los Angeles is a car-oriented city of distinct neighborhoods, from Silver Lake and Koreatown to the San Fernando Valley and the Westside. A large share of older apartments fall under the Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO), which limits yearly increases for existing tenants.
Common mistakes and tips
- Using the county's rules inside city limits, or vice versa.
- Adding a utility surcharge after the 2026 change.
- Assuming single-family homes are covered — most are not under the RSO.
- Not registering complaints with LAHD when an increase exceeds the limit.
Frequently asked questions
How much can rent go up in LA in 2026?
For RSO units, 3% for increases effective 07/01/2025–06/30/2026. From 07/01/2026 the new formula (90% of CPI, 1% to 4%) applies; confirm the exact figure with LAHD.
Is my LA apartment under the RSO?
Generally, if it is in a building of two or more units in the City of LA with a certificate of occupancy on or before October 1, 1978. LAHD's ZIMAS lookup can confirm.
Can landlords still add a utility surcharge?
Not for increases after early 2026 under the updated ordinance, according to LAHD guidance.
What about newer buildings?
They may be covered by California's AB 1482 cap of 5% plus inflation, up to 10%.
Sources
Disclaimer
This calculator provides estimates for educational purposes only and is not financial, tax, legal, real estate, or insurance advice. Consult a licensed professional before making decisions.