California vs Oklahoma
California
Property‑Tax Comparison: California vs. Oklahoma
Intro
Both California and Oklahoma levy property taxes that fund local services such as schools, public safety, and infrastructure. According to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2023 American Community Survey (5‑year estimates), California’s effective property‑tax rate is 0.71 %, while Oklahoma’s is slightly higher at 0.82 %. The two states also differ markedly in median home values, median household incomes, and the resulting dollar amount of annual property taxes.
Side‑by‑Side Metrics
| Metric (2023 ACS 5‑yr) | California | Oklahoma |
|---|---|---|
| Effective property‑tax rate | 0.71 % | 0.82 % |
| Median home value | $695,400 | $185,900 |
| Median annual property tax | $4,926 | $1,520 |
| Property tax on a $250,000 home | $1,771 | $2,044 |
| Property tax on a $500,000 home | $3,542 | $4,088 |
| Median household income | $96,334 | $63,603 |
| Internal link – California | California property tax | |
| Internal link – Oklahoma | Oklahoma property tax |
All figures are drawn from the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2023 American Community Survey (5‑year estimates).
Who Wins on Property‑Tax Rate?
Based on the lower effective property‑tax rate, California wins the comparison.
- Rate difference: 0.11 percentage points, representing a 13.36 % lower rate in California.
- Dollar impact on a $250 k home: $273 less per year in California ($1,771 vs. $2,044).
- Dollar impact on a $500 k home: $546 less per year in California ($3,542 vs. $4,088).
The advantage is measured strictly by the percentage rate applied to assessed value, not by the absolute tax amount paid, which remains higher in California because of its considerably higher median home values.
Which Audience Benefits Most from This Comparison?
| Audience | Relevance of the Data |
|---|---|
| Current or prospective homeowners | The effective tax rate directly affects the cost of owning a home. Homebuyers can compare how the same property value would be taxed in each state. |
| Real‑estate investors | Knowing the rate differential helps evaluate the relative tax burden on investment properties of various values. |
| Retirees considering relocation | Property‑tax rates influence fixed‑income budgeting. A lower rate (California) may be attractive, though total tax dollars will still depend on home price. |
| Policy analysts | The contrast illustrates how differing assessment practices and local levy structures translate into rate outcomes. |
The comparison is most useful for anyone whose decision‑making hinges on the percentage of property value that will be taxed, rather than the absolute dollar amount, which can vary widely due to home‑price disparities between the two states.
Summary
- California’s effective property‑tax rate (0.71 %) is lower than Oklahoma’s (0.82 %).
- The rate advantage translates to $273–$546 less in annual taxes for homes priced at $250 k–$500 k.
- However, California’s median home value and median household income are substantially higher, resulting in a higher median annual tax bill ($4,926 vs. $1,520).
All statements above are based on the most recent ACS estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau.
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Discover how property taxes compare across all states in our comprehensive comparison guide.
Data Source
All figures are drawn from the U.S. Census Bureau's 2023 American Community Survey (5‑year estimates). This comprehensive dataset provides reliable, standardized property tax information across all states.