Mello-Roos Calculator

Mello-Roos assessments in California fund local infrastructure in newer developments. They can add 0.3-0.8% of home value annually for 20-40 years. This calculator sizes monthly and lifetime cost with an escalator assumption.

Annual Mello-Roos assessment

Years remaining

Annual escalator %

Home value

Monthly Mello-Roos

$200

Total remaining cost

$65,518

Annual as % of value

0.35%

How the math works

Mello-Roos (California Community Facilities District assessment) funds local infrastructure in newer developments — schools, parks, roads, sewers. Paid on top of property tax for 20-40 years. Can add 0.3-0.8% of home value annually.

Mello-Roos is discoverable via the county recorder or the CFD administrator. Sellers are required to disclose. Don't rely on Zillow or Redfin — they often miss or misstate Mello-Roos. Pull the specific bond disclosure before contingency removal.

How to Use

Enter annual Mello-Roos assessment from seller disclosure or county records.
Enter years remaining on the bond.
Enter annual escalator — typically 2%/year.
Enter home value for context.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find exact Mello-Roos?

Request the CFD (Community Facilities District) disclosure from seller or listing agent. Also available on the county tax roll. Zillow and Redfin often miss or understate — confirm via official sources before making offer.

Is Mello-Roos deductible?

Most of it — typically 90%+ qualifies as deductible property tax (subject to SALT cap). The portion that funds services (rather than infrastructure bonds) may not be deductible. Check with CPA for your specific CFD.

Can I pay off Mello-Roos early?

Sometimes. The CFD administrator can provide a payoff figure. Usually 15-25% discount to face remaining. Consider at property sale or when refinancing, but comparisons are often marginal.