San Jose–Sunnyvale–Santa Clara rents continue rising into 2026, worsening affordability in one of the priciest U.S. rental markets.
Median asking rent rose 2.5% yearly, reaching ~$3,363 for 0–2 bedroom units.
Two minimum-wage earners would need ~82 hours weekly each to afford median rent at 30% income.
National rents fell 1% yearly to ~$1,693, marking 28 straight months of declines.
Renting remains cheaper than buying monthly, though the gap is narrowing as mortgage rates ease.