Free property tax calculator tailored for California (CA). Calculate instantly with state-specific rates and rules.
California has an effective property tax rate of 0.71%, producing an average annual bill of $4,016. The US national average is 1.07% — California's rate is below the national average but high in dollar terms, placing it at rank #17 out of 50 states (rank 1 = lowest).
Under Proposition 13 (1978), property is assessed at its purchase price and cannot increase by more than 2% per year. When a property sells, it is reassessed to market value, creating a dual system where neighbors with similar homes may pay vastly different taxes.
The Homeowner's Exemption reduces assessed value by $7,000, saving approximately $70/year. Supplemental tax bills are triggered when a property changes hands, covering mid-year reassessment adjustments.
The 2% annual cap under Prop 13 is California's defining property tax feature. Proposition 19 (2021) limited parent-to-child transfers but preserved the base Prop 13 protections.
Long-term California homeowners often pay taxes on valuations 30-50% below market, while recent buyers pay on current market value. A $2M home bought in 1985 may carry a $6,000/year tax bill while a neighbor who bought in 2023 pays $22,000+.
The median home value in California is $785,000. California remains the most expensive state for housing. After a 2022-2023 correction of 10-15%, prices have recovered in most metros. San Jose, San Francisco, and Orange County lead nationally. At the 0.71% effective rate, a homeowner at the median value pays roughly $4,016/year in property taxes.
Data: Tax Foundation (2024), US Census Bureau ACS 2023, Zillow, ATTOM Data Solutions. Updated 2024–2025. Figures reflect state averages — consult a licensed professional for personalized advice.
More from TUDITOOLS