LLC by State Guide

LLC by State Guide › Compare › California vs Delaware

California vs Delaware LLC (2026)

California is cheaper to form, by $40. California is cheaper to keep, by $390 a year. Over five years California costs $1,600 less in state fees. Mainstay Filing, our best overall pick, files in either state for $199 a year.

  • Official sources, checked October 20, 2026

Side by side

MeasureCaliforniaDelaware
Filing fee$70$110
Yearly reportEvery 2 years, $20Yearly, $400
Report cost per year$10$400
5-year state cost$110$1,710
10-year state cost$170$3,710
Registered agentRequiredRequired
Change-agent fee$0$50
ExtrasExtra state tax or feeNone listed
Best overall in either state

Mainstay Filing

Our rating: 4.9 out of 5

$199 / year, same at renewal

  • LLC formation, prepared and filed
  • Registered agent, all year
  • EIN application (with an SSN or ITIN)
  • Annual report filed every year it is due where the state requires one
  • Compliance reminders and stored documents

Price from the Mainstay Filing pricing and FAQ pages, checked October 21, 2026. State fees are passed through at cost and shown before you pay.

Questions

Is California or Delaware cheaper for an LLC?

California is cheaper to form, by $40. California is cheaper to keep, by $390 a year. Over five years California costs $1,600 less in state fees.

Which has the lower filing fee, California or Delaware?

California: $70. Delaware: $110.

Do I need a registered agent in California and Delaware?

California: required. Delaware: required.

Sources