Average Loan Estimate Fees in California (2023)
Last Updated: April 2026 · Data: Optimal Blue OBMMI via Federal Reserve FRED API
California Average
$6,890
Total lender & third-party fees
National Average
$6,180
California is 11% above the national average
Fee-by-Fee Breakdown (2023)
| Fee Type | California | National | Negotiable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Origination Fee | $1,650 | $1,750 | Yes |
| Underwriting Fee | $860 | $800 | Yes |
| Processing Fee | $695 | $600 | Yes |
| Application Fee | $290 | $250 | Yes |
| Rate Lock Fee | $350 | $300 | Yes |
| Appraisal Fee | $580 | $500 | No |
| Title Insurance | $1,430 | $1,250 | No |
| Settlement Fee | $770 | $500 | Yes |
| Document Prep Fee | $230 | $200 | Yes |
| Flood Certification | $35 | $30 | No |
| Total | $6,890 | $6,180 |
Mortgage Closing Costs in California
In 2023, borrowers in California can expect total loan estimate fees of approximately $6,890 on average — 11% higher than the national average of $6,180. The higher costs in California reflect elevated real estate market activity, stronger lender demand, and higher operating costs for local settlement services. Of the fees listed above, the negotiable ones represent your best opportunity to reduce out-of-pocket closing costs — simply asking your lender to reduce or waive these fees before closing can save hundreds of dollars.
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