AI boom puts pressure on San Francisco rents

San Francisco is seeing renewed pressure on rents linked to the growth of the artificial intelligence sector. According to the city’s rent board, eviction notices are up 44%, while tenant advocacy organisations are handling more queries about evictions or possible landlord misconduct.

The city has long faced severe housing pressure associated with technology cycles, high salaries and limited housing supply. Eviction notices are an indicator of conflict between landlords and tenants, although they do not necessarily mean that an eviction has been carried out.

For owners and tenants in other urban markets, the case shows how a rapid influx of highly paid jobs can put pressure on rents. Owners may see stronger demand, but also closer regulatory scrutiny; tenants may face more competition and a greater risk of rent rises or displacement if supply does not increase.