San Francisco is a consolidated city-county in California with one of the most progressive transfer tax structures in the country. The tax is based on the full sale price with rates ranging from 0.5% for sales under $250,000 up to 6% for sales of $25M or more. Unlike most California cities, there is no separate county documentary transfer tax — San Francisco administers its own unified transfer tax. The applicable rate is determined by where the sale price falls within the tiered schedule.
In San Francisco, the transfer tax is customarily paid by the seller. For high-value properties, this can represent a significant cost. While the seller is traditionally responsible, the obligation can be negotiated. Buyers and sellers should discuss payment allocation in the purchase agreement and confirm responsibilities with their escrow officer or real estate attorney.
Certain San Francisco real estate transactions may be exempt from the transfer tax. Common exemptions include transfers between spouses or domestic partners, gifts without monetary consideration, transfers to revocable living trusts where the grantor retains a beneficial interest, and qualifying affordable housing transfers. Given the complexity and the significant tax amounts involved at higher price points, always consult a San Francisco real estate attorney before closing.