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California: state income tax

Whether your state taxes wages, whether the rate is flat or graduated, and where the top rate starts.

Single detailed source
Tax structureGraduated, 10 brackets
Rates (single filers)1.00% to 13.30%
Top rate starts at$1,000,000

Rates are for single filers as of January 1, 2026. Brackets for married couples are often wider. Local income taxes are not included.

General information only, not legal, insurance or financial advice. Not affiliated with any government agency. Exceptions can apply. Confirm with the state agency, the court or a licensed professional in California.

How California compares

13.3% ranks 1 of 42 (1 = highest) for top income tax rate on wages.

Lowest 2.5%Highest 13.3%

Also for California: Discrimination deadlines in California · Paid leave programs in California · Minimum wage in California · Final paycheck rules in California · Paid sick leave in California · Right-to-work laws in California · Tipped minimum wage in California · Payday frequency in California · Rest break laws in California · State EITC in California · All California rules on one page

How we checked this

Rates and brackets come from the Tax Foundation's 2026 table of state individual income taxes, compiled from state statutes, forms and instructions as of January 1, 2026. Last checked: November 12, 2026. Laws change; confirm with the state agency or a licensed professional before acting.

Cross-checked sources agree   Checked on official source confirmed on a government, court or legislature site   Single detailed source one detailed table built from statutes or official data   Under review sources disagree; read the note and the law.