Home Sale Capital Gains Tax Calculator
Estimate capital gains tax on your home sale with the Section 121 exclusion automatically applied.
Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates only. Consult a tax professional for your actual tax liability.
Home Sale Capital Gains Tax in 2026
The Section 121 exclusion is one of the most valuable tax benefits in the US tax code. Homeowners who have owned and lived in their home for at least 2 of the past 5 years can exclude up to $250,000 in capital gains (single filer) or $500,000 (married filing jointly). For the average American homeowner, this exclusion means paying zero capital gains tax on the sale of their primary residence.
In 2026, long-term capital gains rates are 0% for lower-income filers, 15% for most middle and upper-middle income earners, and 20% for high earners (plus 3.8% Net Investment Income Tax for incomes above $200K single / $250K married). If your gain exceeds the exclusion — common in high-appreciation markets where homes have doubled or tripled in value — consult a CPA before listing.