Does Santa Monica have rent control?

Santa Monica does not have local rent control, but California state rules on rent increases may apply.

What is the rent increase cap in Santa Monica?

No local cap exists. California state limits may apply to certain properties.

Are any properties exempt from Santa Monica rent control?

Common exemptions include single-family homes, new construction (typically 15 years), owner-occupied duplexes, and subsidized housing.

Santa Monica, CA Rent Control 2026

Santa Monica has no local rent control. Know the rules before your next rent increase.

Rent control applies in Santa Monica. Exceeding the cap voids the increase and tenants can recover overpayments plus penalties.

Key Takeaways — Santa Monica Rent Control

Key rule: Local Rules Apply
Violation risk: owe back-rent to tenants

Rent Control in Santa Monica

Santa Monica landlords must follow California state law on rent control. Understanding the specific rules, deadlines, and penalties can prevent costly violations.

$2,903

median 2BR rent

Local Rules Apply

key requirement

Penalty Warning

Violate California rent control rules in Santa Monica and you could owe back-rent to tenants. At Santa Monica's median rent of $2,903/month, even a single violation adds up fast.

Don’t risk it. Let LeaseBase handle the compliance.

LeaseBase automatically tracks local ordinances, calculates maximum increases, and generates compliant notices — so you never miss a deadline.

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More Santa Monica Landlord Laws

Security Deposit Laws → Eviction Process & Notice Requirements → Rent Increase Laws → Landlord Entry & Access Rules → Maintenance & Habitability Standards → Late Fee Limits → Lease Termination & Renewal → Fair Housing Protections → Tenant Screening Rules → Required Landlord Disclosures → Property Registration Requirements →

Rent Control in Nearby Cities

Own properties in multiple cities? Rules may differ locally:

Culver City, CA
Pop. 39,041 Beverly Hills, CA
Pop. 30,974 El Segundo, CA
Pop. 16,445 West Hollywood, CA
Pop. 34,349 Inglewood, CA
Pop. 102,865

Never miss a rent control deadline in Santa Monica

LeaseBase tracks local ordinances, calculates maximum increases, and generates compliant notices automatically.

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How we researched this page: Rent control rules are based on California state statutes. Rent data comes from HUD Fair Market Rents (FY2026) for Los Angeles County. Last updated: August 2026.

RA

Reviewed by Rachid Abadli

Founder & CEO, LeaseBase · Sacramento landlord · Self-managing since 2019

LeaseBase is a property management platform — not a law firm. Consult an attorney for legal advice specific to your situation.