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California property tax calculator

California's effective property tax rate averages about 0.75% of market value — below the roughly 1.0% national average. That's roughly $5,888 a year on the state's $785,000 median home. The calculator is pre-filled with that rate.

$5,888 / year

Per month
$490.63
Assessed value
$785,000
Effective rate
0.75%

Rates vary by county and city — check your local assessor for the exact figure.

How it works

Your county assessor sets a taxable (assessed) value, which may be below market value, then applies the combined rate of every taxing body — county, city, school district, and any special levies. A homestead or senior exemption reduces the assessed value before the rate is applied, so an owner-occupied home often owes less than the headline rate on a rental or second home.

For comparison, homeowners insurance in California averages about $1,400 a year, so on the median home the tax bill is the larger of the two escrow items. California's Proposition 13 caps assessed-value growth, so the effective property tax rate looks modest, but the highest median home price in the country means the dollar payment is still among the nation's largest. The state does not credit a trade-in against vehicle sales tax.

Frequently asked questions

What is the property tax rate in California?
California's effective property tax rate averages about 0.75% of a home's market value — below the roughly 1.0% national average. That works out to roughly $5,888 a year on the state's $785,000 median home.
How is property tax calculated in California?
Your county assessor sets a taxable (assessed) value, which may be below market value, then applies the combined rate of every taxing body — county, city, school district, and special levies. Exemptions like a homestead exemption reduce the assessed value first.
Property tax vs. homeowners insurance in California — which costs more?
On the median home, California property tax runs about $5,888 a year versus roughly $1,400 for insurance. Property tax is the larger of the two here.
Can I lower my property tax bill in California?
Most owners can file a homestead exemption on a primary residence, and you can appeal the assessed value if comparable sales suggest it's too high. Senior, veteran, and disability exemptions may also apply.

Learn more: How property tax works

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