California

California has an effective property tax rate of 0.71%, with a median annual property tax of $4,499. Properties are assessed at 100.0% of market value and reassessed at change of ownership or new construction (prop 13); 2% max annual cpi increase otherwise. Payments are due semi-annual.

Effective Rate

0.71%

Assessment Ratio

100.0%

Median Annual Tax

$4,499

Payment Frequency

Semi-Annual

Appeal Deadline

July 2 to September 15 (or November 30 in some counties) for regular assessment appeals

Due Dates

First installment due November 1 (delinquent December 10); second installment due February 1 (delinquent April 10)

Reassessment Cycle

At change of ownership or new construction (Prop 13); 2% max annual CPI increase otherwise

Homestead Exception

$300,000-$600,000 equity protection (varies by county median home price); $7,000 assessed value exemption for owner-occupied homes

Key Notes

Proposition 13 (1978) caps tax rate at 1% of assessed value plus voter-approved bonds. Assessed value based on purchase price, not current market value. Proposition 19 (2020) allows seniors to transfer tax base statewide.

Late Penalty

10% penalty on delinquent installment; after June 30 becomes tax-defaulted with 1.5% per month penalty

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