How Much Does Real Estate Lawyer Cost in California?

California pricing is above the national average. Updated for 2026.

Low End

$675

Average

$2,025

High End

$4,050

per transaction

Real Estate Lawyer Pricing in California

In California, the average cost for real estate lawyer is $2,025 per transaction, which is 35% higher than the national average of $1,500. Most California residents pay between $675 and $4,050.

California has a higher cost of living than most states, which translates to higher labor rates and material costs. Urban areas within California may be even higher.

Real estate attorneys handle property transactions, title searches, contract reviews, and closing documents. Some states require an attorney at closing while others make it optional.

California vs National Average

California Average

$2,025

National Average

$1,500

What Affects Real Estate Lawyer Cost in California?

Service

Closing only: $500-$1,500. Full representation (buy/sell): $1,000-$3,000. Commercial transaction: $2,000-$5,000+

Billing

Flat fee (residential closing): $500-$1,500. Hourly: $200-$400/hr. Title search (additional): $200-$400

📐 Real Estate Lawyer in California Cost Calculator

Get a personalized estimate based on your project details

Project Size / Scope

Your Region

Get a Free Consultation

Speak with experienced attorneys in your area. No obligation.

Top-Rated Real Estate Lawyer Pros in California

5 providers

Landmark Legal Associates

🏆 SPONSORED

★★★★★4.7(96 reviews)

📍 Serving all of CA🏗️ Since 2020

✓ Licensed✓ InsuredBBB: A+⚡ Usually responds in 1 hours

Get a Quote 📞 (735) 143-1479

Proudly serving CA since 2020. Licensed, insured, and committed to excellence.

Capitol Legal Services

✅ VERIFIED

★★★★★4.9(73 reviews)

📍 Serving all of CA🏗️ Since 2017

✓ Licensed✓ InsuredBBB: A+⚡ Usually responds in 4 hours

Get a Quote 📞 (702) 784-1771

Cornerstone & Partners

★★★★★4.7(117 reviews)

📍 Serving all of CA🏗️ Since 1997

✓ Licensed✓ InsuredBBB: A

Get a Quote 📞 (319) 181-1911

Are You a Real Estate Lawyer Professional?

Get listed on CostWhale and reach thousands of customers searching for real estate lawyer in California.

🏆 Get Sponsored — $249/mo Claim Free Listing

💡 Tips to Save on Real Estate Lawyer in California

1.Some states don't require an attorney for simple residential closings
2.Flat fees for closings are typically cheaper than hourly billing
3.Ask if the fee includes title search or if that's separate
4.For simple contract reviews, some attorneys charge reduced flat fees ($200-$500)

📈 Real Estate Lawyer in California Cost Trends (2020–2024)

Prices have increased +17.7% over the last 5 years

$1,720

2020

$1,792

2021

$1,909

2022

$1,962

2023

$2,025

2024

Year	National Avg	YoY Change
2020	$1,720	—
2021	$1,792	+4.2%
2022	$1,909	+6.5%
2023	$1,962	+2.8%
2024	$2,025	+3.2%

Based on national averages adjusted for annual inflation. Actual costs vary by location and project scope.

💬 What Did You Pay?

Real costs reported by homeowners for Real Estate Lawyer in California

$1,982

Avg Reported

$1,387

Lowest Reported

$2,874

Highest Reported

Recent Reports

$1,663

Dallas, TX · Jan 2024

★★★☆☆

$1,927

Chicago, IL · Feb 2024

★★★☆☆

$2,108

Phoenix, AZ · Mar 2024

★★★☆☆

$1,996

Denver, CO · Apr 2024

★★★★★

$1,994

Atlanta, GA · May 2024

★★★★★

$2,306

Seattle, WA · Jun 2024

★★★☆☆

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a real estate lawyer to buy a house?

It depends on your state. About 15 states require an attorney at closing. Even where optional, an attorney is recommended for complex deals, FSBO purchases, or if issues arise during title search.