[DoughtyOne]

Renters cannot deduct mortgage interest payments.

[sparklite2]

I may be misremembering, but there is, or used to be, a renter’s deduction on the state tax form, to offset the landlord’s tax benefit.

[sparklite2]

California renters who meet income and other requirements can apply for a renter’s credit of $60 (if filing separately) or $120 (if filing jointly).

[calenel]

Renters cannot deduct mortgage interest payments.

Renters don't pay mortgages (directly). Landlords do. And they, landlords, can deduct mortgage interest. Those deductions reduce the cost of providing the housing and consequently the amount of rent that must be charged.