California Mortgage Calculator 2026

Calculate your monthly mortgage payment for a home in California (CA). The median home price in California is $833,000, with an effective property tax rate of 0.71% (ranked #35 nationally). Use our free calculator to compare FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional loan options with real California data.

California Property Tax Information

California has an effective property tax rate of 0.71%, ranking #35 among all 50 states. The median annual property tax is $4,926 ($411/month). Source: Tax Foundation 2025.

California Loan Limits 2026

FHA loan limit in California: $524,225 (floor) to $1,209,750 (ceiling for high-cost areas). Conforming loan limit: $806,500 (baseline) to $1,209,750 (ceiling). California has designated high-cost areas with higher limits.

Estimated Monthly Payment in California

For a median-priced home of $833,000 with 20% down ($166,600), at 6.5% interest over 30 years: estimated monthly principal and interest is $4,212, plus $411 in property taxes and approximately $125 in homeowner's insurance, for a total estimated payment of approximately $4,748/month.

California Closing Costs

Average closing costs in California are $5,962 (0.74% of purchase price), ranked #11 nationally. California charges a transfer tax on real estate transactions. Source: Bankrate/LodeStar 2025.

California Housing Market 2026

Home prices in California have increased 2.5% year-over-year. Average days on market: 28. Inventory level: low. Currently considered a seller's market.

Down Payment Assistance Programs in California

California offers 3 down payment assistance programs through California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA):

  • MyHome Assistance Program (second mortgage): Silent second deferred loan. Repaid when home is sold, refinanced, or loan is paid off. - Up to Up to 3.5% of purchase price or $10,000
  • California Dream For All (second mortgage): Shared appreciation loan. State shares in future appreciation when home is sold. - Up to Up to 20% of purchase price
  • Golden State Finance Authority (GSFA) (forgivable loan): Forgivable after 5 years. Multiple programs available through GSFA. - Up to Up to 7% of loan amount

Contact CalHFA: https://www.calhfa.ca.gov | Phone: 916-326-8800

Did You Know About California?

  • Proposition 13 caps property tax increases at 2% annually
  • 250+ different DPA programs available statewide
  • Many counties have high-cost loan limits at the ceiling ($1,209,750)
  • First-time buyer programs available even with high incomes in high-cost areas

Frequently Asked Questions About Buying a Home in California

What is the average property tax rate in California?

The effective property tax rate in California is 0.71%, with a median annual tax of $4,926. This ranks #35 among all states.

What are the FHA loan limits in California for 2026?

The FHA loan floor in California is $524,225 and the ceiling is $1,209,750 for high-cost areas. The conforming loan limit baseline is $806,500.

How much are closing costs in California?

Average closing costs in California are $5,962, which is approximately 0.74% of the purchase price.

Are there first-time homebuyer programs in California?

Yes, California offers 3 down payment assistance programs through California Housing Finance Agency, including grants, forgivable loans, and second mortgages.

Is California a good place to buy a home in 2026?

With a median home price of $833,000 and low inventory, California is currently a seller's market. Home prices have increased 2.5% over the past year.

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Data last updated: 2025-11. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice.