San Diego County Rents Rise 4.1% Amid Tight Vacancy Rates

Santa Clarita is attracting new residents due to its affordability compared to other parts of Los Angeles County, good schools, clean parks, and a suburban lifestyle within commuting distance to LA. The city’s growing labor market in sectors like education, entertainment, healthcare, and retail is also a key draw. Meanwhile, San Diego County has seen a modest 4.1% increase in rents in 2025, with the city of San Diego experiencing a sharper 9.3% rise, following a significant rent drop in 2024. This rent increase coincides with a drop in vacancy rates, signaling renewed demand, although rents remain below 2023 levels in many areas. The city has permitted 8,500 new homes in 2024, contributing to cautious optimism about housing availability and affordability. In Santa Ana, the maximum allowable rent increase for September 2025 through August 2026 is set at 2.42%, based on changes to the Consumer Price Index, and landlords are reminded to register their rental properties by July 1, 2025, to remain compliant with local rent stabilization ordinances.