Mortgage Rates in El Cajon, California — March 2026
Updated March 2026 | Based on El Cajon market data and regional lending conditions
El Cajon is a growing city in California with a population of 106,215. The current 30-year fixed mortgage rate in El Cajon is 6.55%, which is 0.1% below the national average. With a median home price of $625,000 and a 20% down payment of $125,000, homebuyers can expect a monthly principal and interest payment of approximately $3,177.
Current Mortgage Rates in El Cajon, CA
Below are the current average mortgage rates available in the El Cajon 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 | 6.55% | 6.65% | -0.1% |
| 15-Year Fixed | 5.79% | 5.89% | -0.1% |
| 5/1 ARM | 6.05% | 6.15% | -0.1% |
| FHA | 6.15% | 6.25% | -0.1% |
| VA | 5.95% | 6.05% | -0.1% |
| Jumbo | 6.75% | 6.85% | -0.1% |
El Cajon Housing Market Overview
The El Cajon housing market is competitive with prices well above the national median. The median household income in El Cajon is $52,250, and the cost of living index is 118.5 (national average = 100). Based on the 28% affordability rule, you would need an income of approximately $153,129 to comfortably afford the median-priced home in El Cajon, which exceeds the current median household income.
Monthly Payment Breakdown for El Cajon
Based on the median home price of $625,000 with 20% down ($125,000), here is what you can expect to pay monthly in El Cajon:
15-Year vs. 30-Year Mortgage in El Cajon
Choosing a 15-year mortgage in El Cajon at 5.79% instead of a 30-year at 6.55% would save you $394,380 in total interest over the life of the loan. However, your monthly payment would be $4,163 instead of $3,177 — an increase of $986 per month.
Calculate Your El Cajon 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 El Cajon
What are the current mortgage rates in El Cajon, CA?
As of March 2026, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate in El Cajon, California is 6.55%, while the 15-year fixed rate is 5.79%. FHA loans average 6.15% and VA loans 5.95%. These rates are 0.1% below the national average of 6.65%.
How much is a monthly mortgage payment in El Cajon?
Based on the median home price of $625,000 with 20% down, the estimated monthly mortgage payment in El Cajon is $3,177 for principal and interest. Including property taxes of $396/month, the total monthly housing cost is approximately $3,573.
What income do I need to buy a home in El Cajon?
Using the 28% rule, you would need an annual income of approximately $153,129 to afford the median-priced home in El Cajon at $625,000. The median household income in El Cajon is $52,250. This means most households would need to either earn above the median or consider homes below $625,000.
Is El Cajon a good place to buy a home in 2026?
El Cajon has a moderate cost of living with a cost of living index of 118.5 (national average = 100). The property tax rate in California is 0.76%, which is below the national average. El Cajon has a population of 106,215 and offers a balanced lifestyle.
Mortgage Rates in Other California Cities
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Last updated: March 2026. Rates are approximate averages based on regional lending data for the El Cajon, California area. Individual rates may vary by lender, credit score, loan amount, and other factors. Use our free calculator for a personalized estimate.