When is the best time to list a rental?

Short answer

In most California cities, asking rents rise most in spring and early summer, roughly March to June, according to Zillow's rent data; late autumn and winter are usually weakest. Each city page on this site shows the best months for that city from more than 10 years of data where available.

What the data shows

We averaged the month-to-month change in Zillow's typical asking rent for each California city over every year Zillow has tracked. In most cities the biggest rises come in spring and early summer, and the softest months are late autumn and winter. Your city may differ: open your city page and look for Best months to list.

How to use it

If you can choose, time lease end dates for the strong season (a 12-month lease starting in spring keeps renewals in spring).
Start marketing three to four weeks before the home is free.
In slow months, price close to the local typical rent and expect a longer search.

Find your city to see its rent trend and best months.

Sources

Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI)

Written by The Property Management Directory team. Last checked October 2026.