Mortgage Rates in Novato, California — March 2026
Updated March 2026 | Based on Novato market data and regional lending conditions
Novato is a growing city in California with a population of 53,225. The current 30-year fixed mortgage rate in Novato is 6.73%, which is 0.08% above the national average. With a median home price of $748,000 and a 20% down payment of $149,600, homebuyers can expect a monthly principal and interest payment of approximately $3,873.
Current Mortgage Rates in Novato, CA
Below are the current average mortgage rates available in the Novato 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 | 6.73% | 6.65% | +0.08% |
| 15-Year Fixed | 5.97% | 5.89% | +0.08% |
| 5/1 ARM | 6.24% | 6.15% | +0.09% |
| FHA | 6.49% | 6.25% | +0.24% |
| VA | 6.24% | 6.05% | +0.19% |
| Jumbo | 6.98% | 6.85% | +0.13% |
Novato Housing Market Overview
The Novato housing market is competitive with prices well above the national median. The median household income in Novato is $73,100, and the cost of living index is 158.6 (national average = 100). Based on the 28% affordability rule, you would need an income of approximately $185,743 to comfortably afford the median-priced home in Novato, which exceeds the current median household income.
Monthly Payment Breakdown for Novato
Based on the median home price of $748,000 with 20% down ($149,600), here is what you can expect to pay monthly in Novato:
15-Year vs. 30-Year Mortgage in Novato
Choosing a 15-year mortgage in Novato at 5.97% instead of a 30-year at 6.73% would save you $487,080 in total interest over the life of the loan. However, your monthly payment would be $5,040 instead of $3,873 — an increase of $1,167 per month.
Calculate Your Novato 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 Novato
What are the current mortgage rates in Novato, CA?
As of March 2026, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate in Novato, California is 6.73%, while the 15-year fixed rate is 5.97%. FHA loans average 6.49% and VA loans 6.24%. These rates are 0.08% above the national average of 6.65%.
How much is a monthly mortgage payment in Novato?
Based on the median home price of $748,000 with 20% down, the estimated monthly mortgage payment in Novato is $3,873 for principal and interest. Including property taxes of $461/month, the total monthly housing cost is approximately $4,334.
What income do I need to buy a home in Novato?
Using the 28% rule, you would need an annual income of approximately $185,743 to afford the median-priced home in Novato at $748,000. The median household income in Novato is $73,100. This means most households would need to either earn above the median or consider homes below $748,000.
Is Novato a good place to buy a home in 2026?
Novato has a higher cost of living than average with a cost of living index of 158.6 (national average = 100). The property tax rate in California is 0.74%, which is below the national average. Novato has a population of 53,225 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 Novato, California area. Individual rates may vary by lender, credit score, loan amount, and other factors. Use our free calculator for a personalized estimate.