US car payment calculator (all states)
California is the largest car market in the United States, with new vehicle prices typically in the low-to-mid $40,000s in 2026 depending on segment. California combines state base sales tax plus local county add-ons, meaning the effective out-the-door tax rate varies by location. Typical auto loan rates for good-credit borrowers start around 5%–8%, with promotional dealer rates as low as 2.99% on select new models. The most common loan terms are 60, 72, and 84 months, with 72 months dominating dealer financing. California is aggressively promoting EV adoption with a $200 million state EV incentive program in 2026, with some buyers qualifying for up to $14,000 in combined state and local EV incentives. Note: federal EV purchase tax credits ended for vehicles acquired after September 30, 2025.
State: California (illustrative tax %, fees, and rate pre-filled — edit as needed)
Illustrative sales tax % varies by county — confirm with your dealer. Not a financing offer.
Check your state's rate — varies 0% to 10%+.
Typically $800–$2,500 depending on state and dealer.
Monthly payment
$782.92
Out-the-door price: $51,075
Amount financed: $46,575
Total interest paid: $9,795
Total cost of vehicle: $60,870
Cost breakdown
| Vehicle price | $45,000 |
| Down payment | −$4,500 |
| Trade-in (net) | −$0 |
| Sales tax | +$4,275 |
| Title & fees | +$1,800 |
| Amount financed | $46,575 |
| Total interest | +$9,795 |
| Total cost | $60,870 |
| Credit score | New car (illustrative) | Used car (illustrative) |
|---|---|---|
| 781–850 (Exceptional) | 5.5–7% | 7–9% |
| 661–780 (Good) | 7–9% | 9–12% |
| 601–660 (Fair) | 9–13% | 12–17% |
| 501–600 (Poor) | 13–18% | 17–22% |
| 300–500 (Very Poor) | 18–25%+ | 22–29%+ |
Illustrative ranges only. Actual rates depend on lender, loan term, and your full credit profile.
| Location | State Base Tax | Local Add-On | Typical Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | 7.25% | 2.25% | 9.50% |
| San Francisco | 7.25% | 1.25% | 8.50% |
| San Diego | 7.25% | 0.75% | 8.00% |
| Sacramento | 7.25% | 1.00% | 8.25% |
| Statewide base | 7.25% | Varies | 7.25%–10.25% |
California's base state vehicle sales tax is 7.25%, but local county and city add-ons push the effective rate higher depending on where you purchase. Always confirm the exact rate with your dealer — the total tax on a $50,000 vehicle in Los Angeles is approximately $4,750, while in a lower-tax county it may be $3,625.
| Credit Profile | Typical APR | On $40,000 / 72 months |
|---|---|---|
| Excellent (750+) | 2.99%–5.99% | $590–$663/month |
| Good (680–749) | 5.99%–7.99% | $663–$703/month |
| Fair (600–679) | 7.99%–12.99% | $703–$790/month |
| Poor (below 600) | 12.99%–24.99% | $790–$1,040/month |
California launched a $200 million EV incentive program in 2026 focused on first-time buyers and lower-income households. Combined state and local EV incentives can reach up to $14,000 for qualifying buyers and vehicles. New EV price caps are approximately $55,000 for sedans and $80,000 for SUVs and pickups; used EVs must be priced under $25,000. Note: federal EV purchase tax credits ended for vehicles acquired after September 30, 2025 — buyers can no longer claim the federal $7,500 EV credit at point of sale.
| Term | Rate | Monthly Payment | Total Interest |
|---|---|---|---|
| 48 months | 6.5% | $1,067 | $3,216 |
| 60 months | 6.5% | $878 | $5,680 |
| 72 months | 6.5% | $750 | $9,000 |
| 84 months | 6.5% | $657 | $11,988 |
Illustrative principal & interest on amount financed — excludes tax and fees. Use the calculator above for your scenario.
California's base state vehicle sales tax is 7.25%, but local county and city add-ons increase the effective rate. In Los Angeles, the total rate is approximately 9.5%. In San Francisco, approximately 8.5%. The statewide range is 7.25%–10.25% depending on location. On a $45,000 vehicle in LA, tax is approximately $4,275.
Car loan rates in California range from 2.99%–5.99% for excellent-credit borrowers on new vehicles with promotional financing, to 5.99%–7.99% for good credit, and 12.99%–24.99% for poor credit. The federal EV tax credit ended September 30, 2025, so state EV incentives are now more important.
California launched a $200 million state EV incentive program in 2026 targeting first-time buyers. Combined state and local incentives can reach up to $14,000 for qualifying buyers. New EVs must be priced under $55,000 (sedans) or $80,000 (SUVs/pickups). Used EVs must be under $25,000. Federal EV purchase credits ended September 30, 2025.
72 months (6 years) is the most common car loan term in California in 2026. While it lowers monthly payments, a $45,000 loan at 6.5% over 72 months costs $9,000 in total interest vs $5,680 over 60 months. Avoid 84-month terms — you risk being underwater on the loan.
On a $45,000 car in California with 10% down ($4,500), a $40,500 loan at 6.5% over 72 months is approximately $675/month. Add estimated insurance ($150–$250/month), registration fees, and fuel costs for total ownership budget. California has some of the highest auto insurance rates in the US.
Most California lenders prefer a credit score of 650+ for standard approval. Scores of 720+ qualify for the best rates (2.99%–5.99%). Scores below 600 may qualify through subprime lenders at 12.99%–24.99%. California's large credit union network (including Golden 1 and SchoolsFirst) often offers competitive rates for members.
Educational estimates only. Not a loan offer.