2026 effective rate · 0.71% · below the US average (0.99%)
California Property Tax Calculator
Estimate annual and monthly property tax in California. The state's effective property tax rate is 0.71% (close to the national average, vs the US average of about 0.99%). On a $659,300 median-value home, that works out to about $4,665 per year or $390 per month.
California median home property tax
$4,681 per year
$390 per month at the median home value of $659,300
Effective rate 0.71% times $659,300 = $4,681
California property tax at common home values
| Home value | Annual property tax | Monthly | % of value |
|---|---|---|---|
| $150,000 | $1,065 | $89 | 0.71% |
| $250,000 | $1,775 | $148 | 0.71% |
| $350,000 | $2,485 | $207 | 0.71% |
| $500,000 | $3,550 | $296 | 0.71% |
| $659,300 (median) | $4,681 | $390 | 0.71% |
| $750,000 | $5,325 | $444 | 0.71% |
Uses California's 2026 effective rate (0.71%). Actual taxes vary by county and exemptions. For full PITI mortgage estimate including taxes + insurance, use the California mortgage calculator.
California property tax overview
California's Proposition 13 caps property tax at 1% of purchase price plus annual increases capped at 2%. Effective rates appear low because of long-held properties — new buyers pay closer to 1.1-1.25% of purchase price.
California's effective rate of 0.71% ranks close to the national average nationally. Median annual property tax: $4,665. Median home value: $659,300.
California vs neighboring states
FAQs about California property tax
What is the property tax rate in California?
California's effective property tax rate is 0.71% (close to the national average, vs national average of ~0.99%). On a $659,300 median-value home, that's about $4,665 per year, or roughly $390 per month added to your housing cost.
How is property tax calculated in California?
Property tax = assessed value times the local mill rate (millage). The effective rate (0.71%) is what you actually pay as a percentage of market value, accounting for assessment ratios, exemptions, and millage. For a home valued at X, multiply X by 0.71% for an annual estimate.
When are property taxes due in California?
Property tax due dates vary by county within California. Most counties bill annually with either a single payment or two installments. Common payment deadlines fall in late summer (1st half) and late winter (2nd half). Check with your county tax assessor for exact dates and any escrow arrangements through your mortgage lender.
Does California have a homestead exemption?
California offers various property tax relief programs. California's Proposition 13 caps property tax at 1% of purchase price plus annual increases capped at 2%. Effective rates appear low because of long-held properties — new buyers pay closer to 1.1-1.25% of purchase price. Check with your county assessor for primary-residence exemptions and senior or disabled programs that may reduce your annual property tax bill.
How does California property tax compare to neighboring states?
California's 0.71% rate compares to: Oregon (0.87%), Nevada (0.53%), Arizona (0.60%). Property tax burden can vary significantly between neighboring states — moving 30 miles across a state line can change your annual tax bill by thousands.
Can I appeal my property tax assessment in California?
Yes. Every US state including California provides a formal property tax appeal process. Steps: (1) request your property's assessment record from the county assessor, (2) gather comparable sales from your neighborhood, (3) file a formal appeal within the deadline (usually 30-60 days after assessment notice). Successful appeals typically save 5-15% on annual tax bills.
How can I lower my California property taxes?
Common strategies: apply for homestead exemption (primary residence), senior or disabled exemptions if eligible, veteran's exemptions, and appeal over-assessment. Track your county's assessment notices carefully and verify the appraisal matches recent comparable home sales. Avoid major visible upgrades right before reassessment dates.