Average Loan Estimate Fees in California (2025)
Last Updated: April 2026 · Data: Optimal Blue OBMMI via Federal Reserve FRED API
California Average
$6,980
Total lender & third-party fees
National Average
$6,425
California is 9% above the national average
Fee-by-Fee Breakdown (2025)
| Fee Type | California | National | Negotiable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Origination Fee | $1,650 | $1,820 | Yes |
| Underwriting Fee | $860 | $830 | Yes |
| Processing Fee | $725 | $625 | Yes |
| Application Fee | $300 | $260 | Yes |
| Rate Lock Fee | $360 | $310 | Yes |
| Appraisal Fee | $605 | $520 | No |
| Title Insurance | $1,430 | $1,300 | No |
| Settlement Fee | $770 | $520 | Yes |
| Document Prep Fee | $245 | $210 | Yes |
| Flood Certification | $35 | $30 | No |
| Total | $6,980 | $6,425 |
Mortgage Closing Costs in California
In 2025, borrowers in California can expect total loan estimate fees of approximately $6,980 on average — 9% higher than the national average of $6,425. 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.
Data Note
Fee benchmarks reflect 2025 market conditions. Lender fees have trended approximately 2% higher per year since 2023 due to operational cost increases. Actual fees on your Loan Estimate may vary by lender, loan type, and loan amount.
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