How Are Property Taxes Calculated in Each City—and Is There a Way to Lower Them?

Property taxes are a major factor in the cost of owning a home, and if you’re buying or already own property in Los Angeles, Ventura, or surrounding counties, you’ve likely wondered: How are these taxes calculated? And is there any way to reduce them? Let’s break it down.

How Property Taxes Are Calculated in California

In California, property taxes are governed primarily by Proposition 13, which sets clear rules for how much you’ll pay. Here’s what you need to know:

• Base Tax Rate: The general property tax rate in California is 1% of the property’s assessed value.

• Assessed Value: When you purchase a home, the assessed value is usually the purchase price.

• Annual Increase Cap: Under Prop 13, your property’s assessed value can increase by a maximum of 2% per year, even if market values skyrocket.

• Additional Local Taxes & Bonds: Cities and school districts can add voter-approved assessments, which typically range from 0.1% to 0.3%, depending on location.

Examples by City

• Los Angeles: Base 1% + local bonds (~0.21%) → Around 1.21% total.

• Burbank: Base 1% + bonds for schools and city improvements (~0.19%) → About 1.19% total.

• Ventura: Typically around 1.15% to 1.2%, depending on district.

• Glendale: About 1.19%, with school bonds adding slightly more.

So if you buy a home for $900,000 in Los Angeles, expect:

$900,000×1.21%=$10,890peryear.

Why Property Taxes Differ by City

Even though California has a statewide base rate of 1%, the total rate depends on:

• Local bonds and assessments (schools, roads, parks).

• City or county projects approved by voters.
  That’s why rates in Los Angeles can be higher than in Ventura County.

Is There a Way to Lower Your Property Taxes?

Yes! Here are some strategies:

✅ 1. File for a Homeowner’s Exemption

If you live in your home as your primary residence, you can claim a $7,000 exemption on your assessed value. That’s about $70 saved each year—not huge, but every bit counts.

✅ 2. Appeal Your Assessed Value

If you believe your property is over-assessed (common after renovations or market fluctuations), you can file an appeal with your County Assessor’s Office. If successful, this can save you hundreds or even thousands annually.

✅ 3. Check for Special Exemptions

Seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities may qualify for additional property tax relief programs.

✅ 4. Transfer Tax Base (Prop 19)

Under Proposition 19, homeowners over 55, disabled, or victims of disasters can transfer their existing tax base to a new home, potentially saving thousands in taxes when moving.

Bottom Line

Property taxes in California aren’t random—they’re based on your purchase price and local city assessments. While you can’t avoid them completely, homeowner exemptions, reassessment appeals, and Prop 19 benefits can help reduce your bill.

If you’re buying or selling and want to understand how property taxes will affect your monthly payment, reach out! I can help you calculate exact tax estimates for any city in Los Angeles or Ventura County.

📲 Have questions about property taxes or buying in California? Contact me today at (818) 633-5501.