Data shows dramatic rental shifts across L.A. after fires

In the wake of the recent fires, thousands of Angelenos have been forced to find new housing. With entire neighborhoods displaced, competition for rentals has skyrocketed, reshaping the L.A. rental market in ways never seen before.

At RentSpree, our data reveals a major shift in rental behavior across Los Angeles County following the devastating fires, with demand in some areas surging as much as six times above usual trends.

With more than 14,000 structures destroyed, including multi-unit buildings, the fires have worsened an already severe housing crisis. More than half of L.A. County residents are renters, and the majority are considered cost-burdened, spending more than 30 percent of their income on rent. Now, with a flood of displaced Angelenos, competition for available units has reached new extremes.

RentSpree data highlights key shifts in rental activity:

• Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Manhattan Beach, and Malibu saw rental activity spike to six times historic levels
• Sierra Madre, South Pasadena, La Cañada Flintridge, and San Marino also experienced unexpected surges in demand
• Sierra Madre alone saw a 400 percent increase in applications per property

"The data paints a clear picture of the unprecedented amount of people searching for housing," said Michael Lucarelli, CEO of RentSpree. "With demand skyrocketing and affordability stretched, those looking for housing need more support than ever."

Technology eases the burden on displaced renters

Technology eases the burden on displaced renters

Especially in a competitive market, rental technology can help streamline applications and reduce upfront costs, easing financial stress during an already difficult time. We have waived nearly $11,500 in tenant screening fees—our largest financial aid effort to date—to help displaced residents secure new homes faster and overcome financial barriers.

"Simplifying the rental process is critical for those facing uncertainty," added Lucarelli. "By eliminating screening fees and offering a seamless digital application process, we’re trying to help renters secure housing."