What is the Property Tax Rate in San Diego?

Based on HomeLight’s analysis of publicly available data, the average effective property tax rate for a primary residence in San Diego is approximately 0.70% of its estimated value. This is lower than the national average of 0.90%.

For example, with a 0.70% effective tax rate, a homeowner with a $795,000 home might pay around $0,000 in annual property taxes.

An effective property tax rate represents the actual percentage of a property’s market value that a homeowner pays in taxes, considering the assessed value and any exemptions or deductions.

Note: HomeLight’s San Diego property tax calculator provides a ballpark estimate for a primary residence using average rates. Your tax can vary based on location and the specific taxing districts (e.g., schools, fire districts, and libraries) that apply to your parcel. For a precise number, consult the San Diego County Assessor’s Office.

Are There Property Tax Exemptions in San Diego?

Homeowners in San Diego may qualify for several property tax exemptions that can lower their tax bill. These are offered through the San Diego County Assessor’s Office, depending on your location. Common exemptions include:

General homestead exemption: Eligible homeowners can receive an exemption of up to $7,000 in California.
Over-55 exemption: San Diego offers a property tax exemption for those over 55 years of age.
Disabled veteran exemption: California offers a property tax exemption for eligible individuals who are disabled.
Military or veteran exemption: Eligible disabled veterans can apply for a transfer tax exemption.

If you’re buying a home in San Diego, note that property tax exemptions do not automatically transfer from the previous owner. After the home changes hands, you must reapply based on your eligibility.

When Are San Diego Property Taxes Due?

Property taxes in San Diego are billed as follows:

Aug 31: Deadline for unsecured tax bills
– 10% penalty applies starting Sept 1
Late September: Secured property tax bills are mailed
Nov 1: First installment of secured property taxes is due
– Unpaid unsecured accounts begin accruing 1.5% monthly penalty
Dec 10: Last day to pay the first installment without penalty
– After this date, a 10% penalty is added
Jan 1: Lien date for current secured and new unsecured taxes
– New unsecured bills are mailed
Feb 1: Second installment of secured property taxes is due
Apr 10: Last day to pay the second installment without penalty
– After this date, a 10% penalty plus $10 fee applies
May: Delinquent notices sent for unpaid taxes
June 30: End of the fiscal year
July 1: Unpaid secured taxes are moved to the default roll
– Additional 1.5% monthly penalty + $33 redemption fee begins

What Do Property Taxes Pay For in San Diego?

Local property taxes in San Diego pay for important local services, including:

Public schools
Police, fire, and EMS services
Roads, streets, and traffic signals
Parks, libraries, and community centers
City and county government operations
Infrastructure like water, sewer, and trash services
Repayment of local bond projects (such as transit and school improvements)

What Does It Cost to Buy a Home in San Diego?

How Much House Can You Afford?

Affordability in San Diego depends on your income, debt, credit score, and mortgage rate. With a median household income of around $105,780 in America’s Finest City, a buyer might afford a home in the $000,000–$000,000 range using standard debt-to-income guidelines. However, with the San Diego median home price [exceeding/hovering at/coming in at] $795,000, many buyers need dual incomes or additional savings to qualify.

Use HomeLight’s Home Affordability Calculator to estimate your budget based on your income, debts, and current rates.

What Down Payment Will You Need in San Diego?

According to AXIOS, the average down payment on a house in San Diego is 20%. However, down payment amounts vary widely depending on loan type and credit score. While 20% used to be the expected standard, many buyers put down between 5% and 15%, with 3% options available for FHA and some conventional first-time buyer loans.

For a $795,000 home, here’s what your down payment could look like:

3% down = $23,850
5% down = $39,750
10% down = $79,500
15% down = $119,250
20% down = $159,000

Try HomeLight’s Down Payment Calculator to see how different down payments affect your monthly payment and loan size.

How Much Are Closing Costs in San Diego?

Buyers in San Diego can expect to pay about 2% to 5% of the purchase price in closing costs. These may include:

Loan origination and underwriting fees
Title insurance and escrow fees
Appraisal and inspection costs
Prepaid property taxes and homeowners’ insurance
Filing and recording fees

For a $795,000 home, that means estimated closing costs of $15,900 to $39,750. Use HomeLight’s Closing Costs Calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your expected San Diego home purchase price.

How To Find a Trusted San Diego Real Estate Agent

An experienced San Diego agent can help you understand local tax rates, school districts, and development trends — and guide you toward neighborhoods that fit your lifestyle and budget.

HomeLight’s free Agent Match tool uses data from over 27 million transactions and thousands of verified reviews to match you with top San Diego agents based on real performance, not paid ads.

Tell us a little about your buying plans and get matched today with no obligation.

Additional resources when searching for a trusted buyer’s agent in San Diego:

Buying and Selling? Consider “Buy Before You Sell”

If you’re buying a new home in San Diego but need to sell your current property first, HomeLight’s Buy Before You Sell program can simplify the entire process. This modern solution helps you unlock equity from your current home so you can make a non-contingent offer on your new home — and only move once. Watch the short video below to see how it works.