Rent Control: Berkeley vs Oakland
How do rent control rules compare between Berkeley, CA and Oakland, CA?
Berkeley and Oakland have similar restriction levels.
Berkeley, CA
Alameda County
Berkeley has one of the nation strongest Rent Stabilization Ordinances (adopted 1980) with annual AGA increases, just-cause eviction, and registration; enforced by the elected Rent Stabilization Board.
View full Berkeley rules →Oakland, CA
Alameda County
Oakland has strong rent control under the Rent Adjustment Ordinance (OMC Chapter 8.22). The Oakland Rent Adjustment Program limits annual rent increases to the CPI change (capped at 10%) for covered units. Oakland's rent control is stronger than California's statewide AB 1482 protections.
View full Oakland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Berkeley | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Adopted | 1980 (pre-Costa-Hawkins) | - |
| 2024 AGA | 2.3% | - |
| Coverage | Pre-June 1980 multifamily | - |
| Just cause | Citywide all units | - |
| Enforcement | Rent Stabilization Board | - |
| Governing Code | - | OMC Chapter 8.22 — Rent Adjustment |
| Increase Limit | - | CPI change or 10%, whichever is less |
| Covered Units | - | Multi-family pre-1983 construction |
| Statewide | - | AB 1482 covers additional units |
| Penalty | - | Treble damages for violations |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Berkeley FAQ
Is my apartment rent-controlled?
Multifamily buildings built before June 1980 are fully covered; newer units and single-family homes have just-cause protection only.
How much can my rent go up?
Covered units: 2024 AGA of 2.3 percent. Non-covered units: AB 1482 cap of 5 percent plus local CPI up to 10 percent.
Oakland FAQ
How much can my landlord raise rent in Oakland?
For covered units, annual increases are limited to the CPI change (capped at 10%). Check the Rent Adjustment Program for the current year's allowed increase. One increase per 12-month period.
What units are covered by Oakland rent control?
Most multi-family units built before January 1, 1983 are covered by Oakland's Rent Adjustment Ordinance. Units not covered locally may still be protected by California's AB 1482.
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