Property Tax Resources
How Property Taxes Work in California
In California, your annual property tax bill is based on the assessed value of your home, not the current market value. That assessed value is usually set when you purchase a home — and it can only increase by up to 2% per year, thanks to Proposition 13*.
* Want to explore Prop 13’s origin and how it shapes tax policy today?Learn more here.
This 2% cap helps homeowners avoid sudden spikes in their property taxes as values rise. However, the assessed value can be reassessed when:
- The property is sold or transferred
- New construction or major improvements are completed
Most counties charge an ad valorem base tax rate of approximately 1% of the assessed value. In addition, you may see:
- Voter-approved levies for schools, parks, bonds, or local services
- Special assessments like Mello-Roos
Together, these make up your total property tax bill. Want to estimate what that might be for your home or a client’s property? Use the calculator below to get a quick estimate based on your county’s average rate.
Curious how tax savings can be transferred between homes — or passed down to children? Learn about Proposition 19, which expands on Prop 13 and affects both downsizers and inherited properties:View the Prop 19 Guide →
Who Handles Property Taxes in California
Property taxes in California involve several county offices, each with a distinct role:
- County Assessor: Determines your property’s assessed value based on purchase price, new construction, or transfer.
- Auditor-Controller: Calculates the actual tax amount using the assessed value and applicable local tax rates.
- Treasurer-Tax Collector: Issues the property tax bill and is the office where homeowners actually pay their property taxes — whether online, by mail, or in person.
In most cases, you’ll make your payments directly to your county’s Treasurer-Tax Collector through their official website or payment portal.
Estimate Annual Property Taxes
Curious how much annual property taxes might be on a home? Use this quick calculator to estimate based on assessed value and your California county’s typical tax rate.
📍 Estimated Annual Property Tax
Select a California county and adjust the estimated assessed value to calculate the property's annual tax. Based on average total county tax rates.
Calculation Breakdown
The current average property tax rate for Los Angeles is 1.10%.
Estimated Tax = Assessed Value × Tax Rate
So: $750,000 × 1.10%
Estimated Annual Property Tax: $0.00
Disclaimer: This calculator provides an estimated annual property tax amount based on publicly available average tax rates for each California county. Your actual property tax bill may vary based on bond measures, special assessments (such as Mello-Roos), and city or district-specific charges. Always consult your county tax assessor or a real estate professional for precise figures before making financial decisions.
Based on average countywide ad valorem tax rates. Final taxes may vary depending on local assessments, Prop 13 limits, and any special charges (like Mello-Roos).
Flyer Library
Browse and download flyers to share with clients. Each flyer opens in a new tab and can be downloaded in either PDF or PNG format.
Property Tax Calendar (Basic)
A one-page reference explaining California real property tax dates, deadlines, and how property taxes are determined. Includes key dates for exemptions, installment due dates, and delinquency notices.
Property Tax Calendar & Impound Schedule (English)
Key California deadlines, delinquency dates, and impound reserve details — perfect for buyer discussions.
Understanding Supplemental Taxes
Explains how supplemental tax bills work, when they’re issued, and what homeowners should expect after closing.
What Could Cause a Property Reappraisal?
Outlines common triggers like new construction, ownership changes, or disaster relief reassessments.
Calendario de Impuestos a la Propiedad (Español)
Fechas clave de impuestos a la propiedad, vencimientos y explicaciones en español para tus clientes.
Show Buyers Their Future Tax Payments
One of the most common surprises buyers face after closing is their new property tax bill. Whether taxes are impounded in their mortgage or paid separately, knowing what to expect is essential to helping clients feel confident and informed.
Fidelity provides two powerful tools to help you walk your clients through their tax obligations:
Fidelity Agent One
Automatically includes estimated monthly property taxes in the buyer’s monthly payment estimate. Ideal for realtors discussing affordability, bring-to-close costs, or payment planning.
Fidelity Passport
Generates a full breakdown of the property's newly assessed value, total annual tax amount, and how that amount is allocated between agencies. This helps buyers understand where their money goes and sets expectations post-closing.
Find Helpful Property Ownership Insights
Fidelity National Title can help you identify homeowners who may benefit from your support:
- Free & Clear: Property owners who may no longer be paying taxes through a mortgage and might not realize taxes are now due separately.
- Delinquent on Property Taxes: Owners who may have missed a payment and could use a helpful reminder or outreach.
These insights help open thoughtful conversations with homeowners while providing a meaningful service. Use the guide below to learn how.
Want a list of Free & Clear or Delinquent Tax owners in your area? We’re happy to help.
