How much are property taxes in California, and when are they due? Whether you're buying your first home, already own, or are considering a move to Orange County, understanding property taxes helps you avoid surprise expenses and late penalties.
California's base property tax rate is 1% of the home's assessed value, plus voter-approved bonds and other local assessments. On an $800,000 assessed value the base tax is $8,000 a year, and the actual bill is usually higher once the additional assessments are included. The assessed value is not necessarily the same as the current market value.
The regular annual bill comes in two installments. The first is due November 1 and becomes delinquent after December 10; the second is due February 1 and becomes delinquent after April 10. Weekend and holiday extensions may apply.
Property taxes are paid through the county tax collector. In Orange County, homeowners can pay online by eCheck with no service fee, by credit or debit card with a processing fee, or by mail or in person. If your mortgage has an escrow or impound account, your servicer generally pays the bill from the money collected with your monthly payment.
New homeowners: you may receive a separate supplemental property tax bill after buying. It has its own deadlines and may not be covered by your escrow account. The ownership-cost section of the Orange County market page shows what reassessment and the other carrying costs add up to each month.
Have questions about buying or owning a home in Orange County? Reach out — Katherine is happy to help.
Sources: California State Board of Equalization (boe.ca.gov); Orange County Treasurer-Tax Collector (octreasurer.gov). General information, not tax or legal advice; confirm due dates and amounts with the county.