How this calculator works
Turns a renewal notice into numbers: the percentage increase, what it adds per month and per year, and the share of your pay rent takes before and after. It also checks the increase against California's statewide cap for covered units, since that is the most common rent-cap question.
- Increase % = (new rent − current rent) ÷ current rent × 100.
- Extra per year = (new rent − current rent) × 12.
- California cap (Civil Code § 1947.12): the lower of 5% + the regional CPI change, or 10%, over any 12 months. Maximum new rent = current rent × (1 + cap ÷ 100).
Worked example
With these inputs: current monthly rent $1,800; new monthly rent $1,908; regional cpi change for california's cap 3%.
The result is rent increase 6.00%, with extra per month $108.00 and extra per year $1,296.00. California's cap covers many, not all, rentals (for example, units built in the last 15 years and many single-family homes owned by individuals are exempt). Other states and cities have their own rules; check your local housing agency.
Is the increase allowed?
It depends on where you live and the type of rental. California's Tenant Protection Act limits yearly increases on covered units to 5% plus the change in the regional cost of living, never more than 10%. With a 3% CPI change the cap is 8%, so $1,800 could rise to at most $1,944. Some cities have stricter rent control, and many rentals are exempt, including units built in the last 15 years.
Most other states don't cap rent increases, but they do set notice rules. This calculator doesn't give legal advice; for your unit, check with your state or city housing agency or a tenant rights organization.
Planning for the new rent
Once you know the new amount, update your budget before the first higher payment is due. If you enter your take-home pay, the calculator shows rent's share of it before and after, which helps if you're weighing a renewal against moving. The Rent Affordability Calculator shows what rent fits your income, and the Moving Cost Calculator prices the alternative.
Sources
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate a rent increase percentage?
Subtract the current rent from the new rent, divide by the current rent and multiply by 100. From $1,800 to $1,908 is $108 ÷ $1,800 × 100 = 6.00%.
How much can a landlord raise rent in California?
For units covered by the Tenant Protection Act, 5% plus the regional CPI change, capped at 10%, in any 12 months (Civil Code § 1947.12). Many units are exempt, and some cities have stricter local limits.
What is a typical rent increase?
It varies by market and year, so there's no single number. Compare your increase with the 3%, 5%, 7% and 10% rows in the table to see what each would cost you.
How much more will I pay per year?
Multiply the monthly increase by 12. A $108 monthly increase adds $1,296 a year.