California closing cost calculator
Buyer-side closing costs for California homes - including city transfer tax variations.
California closing costs are dominated by two things: city transfer taxes that vary wildly (LA charges $4.50/$1,000, SF up to $30/$1,000 on luxury sales) and Mello-Roos special assessments in newer developments. The county documentary transfer tax is a flat $1.10/$1,000 statewide and is split or assigned by local custom.
Worked examples
Real numbers for common scenarios. These are estimates - your final closing disclosure will reflect the exact fees your specific loan and property require.
Scenario
$825,000 home in San Diego, 20% down
Inputs
- Sale price
- $825,000
- Loan
- $660,000
Estimate
- Doc transfer tax (county)
- $908
- City transfer tax (San Diego: none)
- $0
- Title + escrow
- $3,200
- Lender fees
- $2,200
- Initial escrow
- $4,100
- Estimated buyer closing costs
- $10,408
Run your own numbers
The calculator gives you the same itemized breakdown for any price, down payment, loan type, and location.
Open the calculatorFrequently asked questions
What is Mello-Roos and does it affect closing costs?+
Mello-Roos is a special tax assessment in California Community Facilities Districts (CFDs) - typically newer developments where the assessment funded schools, parks, or infrastructure. It's not a closing cost per se but it's a recurring annual tax that often runs $2,000-$5,000/year on top of regular property tax. Always ask for the Mello-Roos disclosure before making an offer.
Who pays for title insurance in California?+
Local custom varies. In Southern California (LA, OC, SD) the seller usually pays for the owner's title policy. In Northern California (SF Bay Area) it's often split or buyer-pays. Always negotiable.
All numbers shown are estimates for planning purposes. Closing costs, taxes, and fees vary by lender, title company, county, and individual transaction. LoanElk is not a lender, broker, or financial advisor. Your final Loan Estimate and Closing Disclosure are the authoritative figures.