California variant. This is a California-specific version of the Property Tax Calculator, using pre-defined local figures (tax rates, median home and income values, and typical regional costs). For the full formula, methodology, and FAQ, open the main Property Tax Calculator.
California's effective property tax rate of 0.71% means the owner of a median $760,000 home pays roughly $5,396 per year - a figure that varies widely by state.
How California property tax is calculated
Property tax = assessed value × local millage rate. The 0.71% effective rate shown here is the statewide average of tax paid relative to market value, which smooths over county-by-county differences.
On the $760,000 California median home, that works out to about $5,396/year or $450/month - often escrowed into your mortgage payment.
About taxes and housing in California
California has the highest top marginal income tax rate in the nation, reaching 13.3% on the highest earners with an additional surcharge on income above $1 million.
California's Proposition 13 caps annual increases in a property's assessed value at 2%, which keeps long-term owners' tax bills well below current market value.
California has the largest state economy in the U.S., powered by technology, entertainment, and agriculture, but also one of the highest costs of living.
Worked example: tax on a $760,000 home
$760,000 × 0.71% = $5,396 per year. A $500,000 home in California would owe about $3,550 annually at the same effective rate.
Quick reference
- State income tax: 1-13.3% (highest in US), additional 1% mental health tax over $1M
- State sales tax: 7.25% (plus 1.31% avg local)
- Median home value: $760,000
- Median household income: $95,521
- Effective property tax rate: 0.71%
- Avg auto insurance: $2,291/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the property tax rate in California?
California's effective property tax rate averages 0.71% of market value per year.
How much property tax on a $760,000 home in California?
About $5,396 per year at the 0.71% effective rate.