Living in Los Angeles County means dealing with a mix of taxes—from what you pay on your income to what you pay when you shop or own a home. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in 2025, explained in simple words.
No Extra Income Tax for Los Angeles County
First, let’s clear something up: Los Angeles County does not have its own income tax. If you live or work in LA County, you pay:
- Federal income tax to the IRS
- California state income tax is reported to the Franchise Tax Board (FTB)
There’s no third layer from the county. So while taxes may feel high, LA County doesn’t add more to your paycheck beyond what the state and federal government already take.
California State Income Tax Rates in 2025
Even though LA County doesn’t collect income tax, California does—and the rates in 2025 are still progressive, meaning the more you earn, the higher your rate.
Here’s a rough breakdown:
- 1% on the first ~$10,000 of taxable income (single filer)
- 2–9.3% on middle income levels
- 10.3–12.3% for high earners
- 13.3% top bracket (for incomes over $1 million – this is the highest state income tax in the country)
So, for someone making around $60,000 a year, they’d likely fall into the 6%–8% state tax range (not counting deductions or credits).
LA County Sales Tax in 2025
Sales tax is what you pay when you buy things like clothes, electronics, or even a cup of coffee.
As of 2025, the sales tax in most of Los Angeles County is 9.5%. Some cities like Santa Monica, Pasadena, and Long Beach may charge a bit more (up to 10.25%) due to local taxes added on top.
That means if you buy something that costs $100, you’re paying up to $10 in tax.
Property Taxes in Los Angeles County
If you own a home in LA County, property taxes are another thing to consider.
- The base property tax rate is 1% of the assessed value of your home.
- But with voter-approved local measures and bond debts, most homeowners pay around 1.16% to 1.25% annually.
For example, if your home is valued at $600,000, your yearly property tax might be around $7,000 to $7,500.
Other Local Taxes and Fees to Know
Aside from income, sales, and property taxes, there are a few other costs LA County residents might see:
- Gasoline taxes: Included in pump prices, part goes to state and local projects
- Utility user taxes: Some cities in LA County charge extra fees on electricity, water, gas, and phone bills
- Business taxes: If you’re self-employed or own a business, you might owe the City of LA or other local agencies a business tax
Always check with your city’s finance department for the most current rates.
Final Thoughts
While Los Angeles County doesn’t charge its own income tax, living there still means paying your fair share through state income tax, high sales taxes, and property taxes. If you’re budgeting or planning to move to LA, knowing these tax numbers can help you avoid surprises when tax season comes around.
