Mortgage Rates in Berkeley, California — March 2026
Updated March 2026 | Based on Berkeley market data and regional lending conditions
Berkeley is a growing city in California with a population of 124,321. The current 30-year fixed mortgage rate in Berkeley is 6.74%, which is 0.09% above the national average. With a median home price of $829,000 and a 20% down payment of $165,800, homebuyers can expect a monthly principal and interest payment of approximately $4,297.
Current Mortgage Rates in Berkeley, CA
Below are the current average mortgage rates available in the Berkeley area as of March 2026. Rates vary by lender, credit score, and loan-to-value ratio. Use our free calculator above to see your personalized estimate.
| Loan Type | Rate | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30-Year Fixed | 6.74% | 6.65% | +0.09% |
| 15-Year Fixed | 5.98% | 5.89% | +0.09% |
| 5/1 ARM | 6.24% | 6.15% | +0.09% |
| FHA | 6.49% | 6.25% | +0.24% |
| VA | 6.24% | 6.05% | +0.19% |
| Jumbo | 6.99% | 6.85% | +0.14% |
Berkeley Housing Market Overview
The Berkeley housing market is competitive with prices well above the national median. The median household income in Berkeley is $77,500, and the cost of living index is 155.3 (national average = 100). Based on the 28% affordability rule, you would need an income of approximately $205,757 to comfortably afford the median-priced home in Berkeley, which exceeds the current median household income.
Monthly Payment Breakdown for Berkeley
Based on the median home price of $829,000 with 20% down ($165,800), here is what you can expect to pay monthly in Berkeley:
15-Year vs. 30-Year Mortgage in Berkeley
Choosing a 15-year mortgage in Berkeley at 5.98% instead of a 30-year at 6.74% would save you $540,900 in total interest over the life of the loan. However, your monthly payment would be $5,589 instead of $4,297 — an increase of $1,292 per month.
Calculate Your Berkeley Mortgage Payment
Use our free calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your loan amount, interest rate, and term.
Open Free CalculatorFrequently Asked Questions About Mortgages in Berkeley
What are the current mortgage rates in Berkeley, CA?
As of March 2026, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate in Berkeley, California is 6.74%, while the 15-year fixed rate is 5.98%. FHA loans average 6.49% and VA loans 6.24%. These rates are 0.09% above the national average of 6.65%.
How much is a monthly mortgage payment in Berkeley?
Based on the median home price of $829,000 with 20% down, the estimated monthly mortgage payment in Berkeley is $4,297 for principal and interest. Including property taxes of $504/month, the total monthly housing cost is approximately $4,801.
What income do I need to buy a home in Berkeley?
Using the 28% rule, you would need an annual income of approximately $205,757 to afford the median-priced home in Berkeley at $829,000. The median household income in Berkeley is $77,500. This means most households would need to either earn above the median or consider homes below $829,000.
Is Berkeley a good place to buy a home in 2026?
Berkeley has a higher cost of living than average with a cost of living index of 155.3 (national average = 100). The property tax rate in California is 0.73%, which is below the national average. Berkeley has a population of 124,321 and offers a balanced lifestyle.
Mortgage Rates in Other California Cities
Related Tools & Guides
Last updated: March 2026. Rates are approximate averages based on regional lending data for the Berkeley, California area. Individual rates may vary by lender, credit score, loan amount, and other factors. Use our free calculator for a personalized estimate.