A lower rent increase cap is now in effect for many renters across San Diego County, reducing the maximum allowable increase over the next year from 8.8% to 8.2%. The change applies to housing that is more than 15 years old, single-family homes and condominiums owned by corporations, mobile homes rented from park management and housing rented through Section 8. Under California law, landlords cannot increase rent by more than 5% plus the local rate of inflation, or a total of 10%, whichever is lower. Some renters welcomed the lower cap but said they believe it should go further. “I support the rent cap. I’m glad that it’s being lowered from 8.8 to 8.2. But it should be even lower. It should be like 5.” said Jordan Daniels. Hillcrest, a neighborhood that has seen significant construction and new development, has also experienced rising housing costs, according to residents. Jordan Daniels, who rents an apartment in University Heights, said the cost of living in nearby neighborhoods has become increasingly difficult to afford. “I used to live in Hillcrest, and it was $3,500 for basically the same two-bedroom, two-bath apartment with a washer and dryer in the unit and stuff.” said Daniels, adding he has since moved to University Heights where he pays less than $3,000 for the same amenities. Juan Carlos Sandoval Rodriguez, who rents a studio apartment in Bankers Hill, said keeping up with rent requires working long hours. “I need to have two jobs. I work Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. so I’m able to pay my rent and still have a semblance of a life.” Asked about the rent cap, Sandoval Rodriguez said: “I don’t think that’s fair.” Daniels also questioned whether the new limit provides enough relief. “I think 8% is still a high number.” Other renters said the broader housing market continues to make it difficult to build financial stability. “I think something has to give. I think renters don’t have a lot of options to eventually become homeowners, and I think that’s something we really need to change in San Diego. I basically pay my landlord’s mortgage.” said Tyler Renner. Renner also said rising housing costs are affecting vulnerable residents throughout San Diego. “A lot of seniors are getting priced out of this neighborhood. A lot of young people, a lot of renters, a lot of people who work in the service industry.” he added, “Rent increases for seniors or someone on a fixed income mean that people are going to fall into homelessness.” Legal Aid San Diego also reminds renters that landlords must provide 30 days’ written notice for rent increases of less than 10% and 90 days’ written notice for rent increases of more than 10% compared with the previous year. The organization says it offers free assistance with tenant rights for renters who are unsure whether a rent increase is legal, for more click here. This story was originally reported for broadcast by NBC San Diego. AI tools helped convert the story to a digital article, and an NBC San Diego journalist edited the article for publication. ...read more read less