Your In-Depth Guide to Condo Fees

Every condo owner pays HOA fees, also called dues or assessments, to the homeowners association that runs the building. They’re one of the biggest differences between owning a condo and owning a house, and they vary enormously from one building to the next. Here’s what they pay for and how they work.

What do condo fees include?

HOA fees pay for everything the owners share. In most buildings that includes:

• The master insurance policy covering the building and common areas
• Maintenance and repairs of the roof, exterior, elevators, hallways and garage
• Reserves: savings for major future projects such as a new roof or elevator modernization
• Amenities: the pool, spa, gym, clubroom and their upkeep
• Staff: concierge, security, management and janitorial services
• Some utilities: often water, sewer and trash; occasionally more

What dues don’t cover: your unit’s interior, your own HO-6 insurance policy, property taxes, and usually electricity and internet.

How much are condo fees in Downtown San Diego?

It depends mostly on staffing and amenities. Smaller buildings without a pool or concierge can run under $500 a month, while full-service towers often run $1,500 to more than $2,500. A few examples from 2026 sales:

• Metrome, East Village: about $550–$670 a month
• Electra, Columbia: about $1,780–$1,810 a month
• Pacific Gate, Columbia: more than $2,300 a month

Every building page on our site lists its current HOA range, so you can compare before you shop.

How often do you pay?

Monthly, in almost every building. Some associations offer automatic payment. Dues are separate from your mortgage, though lenders count them when deciding how much you can borrow.

Can HOA fees go up?

Yes. In California, an association’s board can generally raise regular dues by up to 20% a year without a vote of the owners, and impose special assessments of up to 5% of the budgeted expenses without a vote. Larger increases need owner approval. Associations also have to review their reserves regularly, and a study showing underfunded reserves often leads to higher dues or a special assessment.

What happens if you don’t pay?

Late payments can bring late charges and interest, and the association can eventually record a lien on the unit. California law limits foreclosure for unpaid regular dues to larger, longer-running debts, but unpaid assessments can still become very expensive and affect your credit. If you’re struggling, talk to the association early; many will agree to a payment plan.

How to evaluate a building’s fees before you buy

1. Compare dues to what they include, not just the number.
2. Read the budget and reserve study to see whether the reserves are healthy.
3. Check the board’s meeting minutes for planned projects or special assessments.
4. Ask how much dues have risen over the past few years.

Need help comparing buildings?

The Neuman Team has specialized in Downtown San Diego condos since 1981, with more than 7,400 closed sales, and has been #1 in 92101 for homes sold since 2000. Browse our building guides or call (619) 595-7025.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do HOA fees cover in a condo?

Usually the building’s master insurance, maintenance of common areas, reserves for future repairs, amenities such as the pool and gym, building staff, and often water, sewer and trash.

How much can an HOA raise fees in California?

Generally up to 20% a year for regular dues, and special assessments up to 5% of budgeted expenses, without a vote of the owners. Larger increases require owner approval.

Are HOA fees paid monthly?

Yes, in almost every building. Dues are paid separately from your mortgage, but lenders include them when calculating what you can afford.