California Foreclosure Statistics 2025
This page provides comprehensive California foreclosure statistics for 2025, including foreclosure rates by county, historical trends, timeline data, and market analysis. Data is compiled from ATTOM Data Solutions, CoreLogic, the California Association of Realtors, and county recorder offices.
California Foreclosure Overview 2025
California Foreclosure Breakdown by Filing Type
Understanding the types of foreclosure filings helps gauge the true state of the market. Not all filings result in homeowners losing their homes.
| Filing Type | 2024 Total | Q4 2024 | YoY Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Notice of Default (NOD) | 28,500 | 7,800 | +18% |
| Notice of Sale (NOS) | 19,200 | 5,100 | +12% |
| Completed Foreclosures | 8,300 | 2,200 | +8% |
Key Insight: Most Foreclosures Don't Complete
Only about 29% of California foreclosure filings result in completed foreclosure auctions. The remaining 71% are resolved through loan modifications, reinstatements, short sales, or other workout options. This demonstrates that homeowners who take action early have strong chances of avoiding foreclosure.
Foreclosure Rates by California County (2025)
Foreclosure activity varies significantly across California counties. Below are the top 15 counties by foreclosure rate:
| County | Foreclosure Rate | 1 in X Homes | Total Filings (2024) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kern County | 0.41% | 1 in 244 | 1,420 |
| San Bernardino County | 0.38% | 1 in 263 | 2,980 |
| Riverside County | 0.35% | 1 in 286 | 3,150 |
| Fresno County | 0.33% | 1 in 303 | 1,180 |
| Sacramento County | 0.31% | 1 in 323 | 1,920 |
| San Joaquin County | 0.30% | 1 in 333 | 820 |
| Stanislaus County | 0.29% | 1 in 345 | 580 |
| Los Angeles County | 0.28% | 1 in 357 | 9,850 |
| Tulare County | 0.27% | 1 in 370 | 420 |
| Merced County | 0.26% | 1 in 385 | 280 |
| Solano County | 0.25% | 1 in 400 | 440 |
| Alameda County | 0.22% | 1 in 455 | 1,340 |
| Orange County | 0.21% | 1 in 476 | 2,280 |
| San Diego County | 0.20% | 1 in 500 | 2,540 |
| Santa Clara County | 0.14% | 1 in 714 | 920 |
Geographic Pattern
Inland and Central Valley counties (Kern, San Bernardino, Riverside, Fresno) show higher foreclosure rates than coastal counties. This correlates with median income levels, home equity positions, and local economic conditions. Los Angeles has the most total foreclosures but a moderate rate due to its large housing stock.
California Foreclosure Timeline Statistics
How long does foreclosure take in California? Here are the average timelines based on 2024 data:
| Timeline Stage | Legal Minimum | Average (2024) | Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Missed Payment to NOD | 30 days | 148 days | 90-365 days |
| NOD Cure Period | 90 days | 90 days | 90 days (fixed) |
| NOS Recording to Auction | 21 days | 38 days | 21-90 days |
| Total Process | 141 days | 276 days | 141-545 days |
California Foreclosure Historical Trends (2019-2025)
| Year | Total Filings | Foreclosure Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 54,280 | 0.39% | Pre-pandemic baseline |
| 2020 | 23,400 | 0.17% | Moratorium begins (March) |
| 2021 | 11,200 | 0.08% | Historic low; moratorium continues |
| 2022 | 28,600 | 0.21% | Moratorium ends; gradual increase |
| 2023 | 48,700 | 0.35% | Continued normalization |
| 2024 | 56,000 | 0.40% | Near pre-pandemic levels |
| 2025 (Proj.) | 58,000-62,000 | 0.42-0.45% | Modest increase expected |
2025 Forecast
Foreclosure activity in California is expected to continue its gradual increase through 2025, though rates should remain below pre-2019 levels. Key factors include: expiring forbearance plans, higher interest rates on ARM resets, and persistent inflation. However, strong home equity (average 45% in California) provides a buffer, as most distressed homeowners can sell rather than face foreclosure.
Factors Driving California Foreclosures in 2025
Primary Factors
- Expired Forbearance Programs: 2.8 million California homeowners used forbearance during COVID; many plans have now expired
- Rising Interest Rates: Adjustable-rate mortgages resetting to higher rates; refinancing less attractive
- Inflation Impact: Higher cost of living straining household budgets
- Job Market Shifts: Tech sector layoffs affecting Bay Area and Southern California
Mitigating Factors
- Strong Home Equity: California homeowners have average 45% equity; most can sell before foreclosure
- Low Inventory: Sellers can find buyers quickly, avoiding distressed sales
- Loss Mitigation Options: Lenders offering more workout options than pre-2008
- Legal Protections: California Homeowner Bill of Rights provides significant protections
California vs. National Foreclosure Comparison
| Metric | California | National Average | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foreclosure Rate | 0.23% | 0.28% | -18% |
| Average Time to Foreclose | 276 days | 948 days | -71% |
| Completion Rate | 29% | 35% | -17% |
| Average Home Equity | 45% | 31% | +45% |
What These Statistics Mean for Homeowners
If you're facing foreclosure in California, these statistics reveal important insights:
- You have time: The average foreclosure takes 276 days, giving you significant time to explore options
- Most foreclosures don't complete: 71% of California foreclosure filings are resolved before auction
- Equity is your protection: With average 45% equity, most California homeowners can sell instead of losing their home
- Help is available: Lenders and servicers are required to explore loss mitigation options under California law
Facing Foreclosure? Get Help Today
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