California Income Tax Calculator 2026

Calculate your combined federal and California state income tax for 2026. See your federal brackets, California tax, effective rate, and take-home pay — all calculated privately in your browser.

California Income Tax: Graduated Brackets Up to 13.3%

California uses a progressive income tax system with 10 brackets. Rates range from 1.0% to 13.3%, with higher income taxed at higher rates. California has the highest state income tax rate in the US at 13.3% on income over $1 million.

Like federal taxes, California's system is marginal — only the income within each bracket is taxed at that bracket's rate. Combined with federal taxes (10%–37%), California residents can face a total marginal rate of up to 50.3% on their highest dollars of income.

California Tax Brackets for 2026 (Single Filer)

The California income tax brackets for single filers are:

1.0% on income from $0 to $10,412
2.0% on income from $10,412 to $24,684
4.0% on income from $24,684 to $38,959
6.0% on income from $38,959 to $54,081
8.0% on income from $54,081 to $68,350
9.3% on income from $68,350 to $349,137
10.3% on income from $349,137 to $418,961
11.3% on income from $418,961 to $698,271
12.3% on income from $698,271 to $1,000,000
13.3% on income over $1,000,000

Your marginal rate is the rate on your last dollar of income. Your effective rate (total tax divided by total income) is always lower because of the progressive structure.

Tips to Lower Your California Tax

Maximize pre-tax retirement contributions to reduce both federal and California taxable income. The 2026 401(k) limit is $24,500 ($32,500 with catch-up for age 50+). If California conforms to federal deductions, your standard deduction and itemized expenses also reduce your state tax liability.