Rent Control: Los Angeles vs Pasadena
How do rent control rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and Pasadena, CA?
Los Angeles and Pasadena have similar restriction levels.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
The LA Rent Stabilization Ordinance (LAMC Chapter XV) covers buildings with 2+ units built before October 1, 1978, approximately 650,000 units or 70% of rentals. Annual rent increases are tied to CPI, currently 3% (July 2025-June 2026). Effective Feb 2026, the formula changes to 90% of CPI with a 1%-4% range and no utility surcharges. Single-family homes are exempt.
View full Los Angeles rules →Pasadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Pasadena voters approved Measure H in 2022 establishing rent stabilization. The max allowable increase is 3.0% (Oct 2024-Sept 2025) and 2.25% (Oct 2025-Sept 2026). No banking of unused increases. Landlords must register units and pay Rental Housing Fee before any increase.
View full Pasadena rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | Pasadena |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage | Buildings built before Oct 1, 1978 | - |
| Current Increase | 3% (July 2025-June 2026) | - |
| New Formula | 1%-4% range effective Feb 2026 | - |
| Units Covered | Approx. 650,000 units | - |
| Code Section | LAMC Chapter XV | - |
| 2024-25 Cap | - | 3.0% max increase |
| 2025-26 Cap | - | 2.25% max increase |
| Banking | - | Not permitted |
| Registration | - | Required before any increase |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Los Angeles FAQ
Is my apartment rent-controlled?
Buildings with 2+ units built before October 1, 1978 are covered. Check LAHD's ZIMAS system for your address.
How much can my rent go up?
Annual increases are capped at 3 to 8% based on CPI. Your landlord must provide 30-day notice.
Pasadena FAQ
Is my Pasadena apartment rent-controlled?
Multi-family units built before February 1995 are covered under the 2022 rent stabilization ordinance.
How much can rent increase?
Annual increases capped at 75% of the regional CPI.
Compare other topics
See how Los Angeles and Pasadena compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool