What is the property tax rate in California?

California's average property tax rate is 0.73%, which is low compared to the national average of 1.07%. On a $750,000 home, that's approximately $456/month in property taxes.

California Mortgage Calculator 2026

California has the highest home prices of any continental U.S. state, with a statewide median around $750,000 and significantly higher in the Bay Area. Proposition 13 keeps property taxes low for existing owners, but new buyers are assessed at current market value. The state income tax (up to 13.3%) is a major affordability factor.

$750,000

Median Home Price

0.73%

Property Tax Rate

Low

7.25%

Avg 30-yr Rate

$4,674

Est. Monthly (PITI)

Calculate Your California Mortgage Payment

Pre-filled with California averages — adjust any value to match your situation.

Purchase Price ($)

Down Payment (%)

= $150,000 down

Annual Interest Rate (%)

Loan Term (years)

Monthly Tax ($)

Monthly Insurance ($)

Estimated Monthly Payment Breakdown

Based on $750,000 home price, 20% down, 30-year fixed at 7.25%.

Principal & Interest

$4,093/mo

Property Tax

$456/mo

Homeowners Insurance

$125/mo

Total (PITI)

$4,674/mo

California Property Taxes & Income Tax

California's Prop 13 caps annual property tax increases at 2% for existing owners, but new buyers are assessed at current market value — on a $750,000 home, expect ~$7,500–$9,750/year in property taxes. California is a community property state with the highest state income tax in the nation (up to 13.3%).

✅ Homestead Exemption available — California offers a homestead exemption for owner-occupied primary residences, reducing your property tax bill.

ℹ️ Community Property State — California is a community property state. Assets acquired during marriage are generally owned equally by both spouses, which affects mortgage applications.

California Homeowners Insurance

🌋Earthquake Zone

Earthquake risk is significant statewide — separate earthquake insurance through the California Earthquake Authority averages $800–$3,000/year. Wildfire risk has caused many insurers to exit the market. Budget $1,500–$4,000+/year depending on location.

California Housing Market Overview

The Bay Area remains one of the most expensive markets globally. Los Angeles County median is $800,000–$900,000. Sacramento and the Inland Empire offer more affordable entry points. California's $1,149,825 conforming limit helps many buyers avoid jumbo loans.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average mortgage payment in California?

Based on California's median home price of $750,000, a 20% down payment, and a 30-year fixed rate of 7.25%, the estimated total monthly payment (PITI) is approximately $4,674/month.

What is the conforming loan limit in California?

The conforming loan limit in California is $1,149,825. Loans above this amount are jumbo loans requiring stronger credit and larger down payments.

Are VA loans available in California?

Yes — eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses can use VA loans in California with no down payment and no PMI. The VA loan limit in California is $1,149,825.

California Loan Limits

Conventional$1,149,825

FHA$1,089,300

VANo limit (full entitlement)

Jumbo starts at$1,149,826

California Homebuyer Programs

CalHFA MyHome Assistance Program

California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA)

Deferred-payment junior loan of up to 3.5% of the purchase price for down payment and/or closing costs.

Learn more →

Loan Types Available

✓Conventional (30-yr, 15-yr, ARM)

✓FHA (3.5% down)

✓VA (0% down for veterans)

Compare Neighboring States

Oregon0.97% tax Nevada0.60% tax Arizona0.62% tax

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