The USC Casden Real Estate Economics Forecast predicts rent increases in Southern California over the next two years, despite the economy's resilience not addressing the housing shortage. Mortgage rates remain high, impacting new housing supply and affordability. While the mortgage market may improve as rates drop, construction has slowed, leaving California behind states like Florida and Texas in housing development. The forecast includes projected multifamily rents and vacancies for Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, Ventura counties, and the Inland Empire.