California Property Tax Calculator 2026
Calculate your California property taxes — effective rate 0.77%, average annual tax $4,860. Updated June 2026.
California Property Tax Overview
California has an effective property tax rate of 0.77%, making it near the national average among all 50 states. The average annual property tax in California is $4,860 on a median home value of $631,200.
- Effective tax rate: 0.77%
- Assessment ratio: 100% (Prop 13 caps at 2%/yr)
- Median home value: $631,200
- Average annual tax: $4,860 ($405/month)
How California Property Tax Works
California properties are assessed at 100% (Prop 13 caps at 2%/yr) of market value. The assessed value is then multiplied by the local millage rate to determine your annual tax bill.
California Property Tax = Assessed Value × Local Millage Rate
Local millage rates vary by county, city, school district, and special districts within California. Your total rate is the sum of all applicable levies.
California Property Tax Exemptions
- Homestead exemption: $7,000 off assessed value (Prop 13)
- Senior exemption: Available in most counties — check your local assessor's office for specific amounts and age thresholds (typically 65+)
- Veteran exemption: Disabled veterans (10%+ rating) may qualify for additional exemptions — varies by county. Contact your county assessor for details
- Disability exemption: Disability exemptions available in most counties — typically mirrors the senior exemption. Contact your county assessor for specific amounts
How California Compares to Neighboring States
How to Appeal Your California Property Tax
If you believe your California property is over-assessed, you have the right to appeal:
- 1. Contact your county assessor — Review your assessment for errors in square footage, lot size, or condition
- 2. Gather comparable sales — Find 3-5 similar homes sold recently in your California neighborhood with lower values
- 3. File by the deadline — California appeal deadlines vary by county; check your assessment notice
- 4. Present evidence — Focus on facts and comparable data, not complaints about tax rates
- 5. Success rate: 50-70% of California property tax appeals result in a reduction
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the property tax rate in California?
The effective property tax rate in California is 0.77% as of 2026. On a home valued at $631,200, the annual property tax is approximately $4,860.
How are properties assessed in California?
In California, properties are assessed at 100% (Prop 13 caps at 2%/yr) of market value. The assessed value determines the taxable value used to calculate your property tax bill.