District Of Columbia vs Florida
District of Columbia
Property‑Tax Comparison: District of Columbia vs. Florida
According to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2023 American Community Survey (5‑year estimates), the District of Columbia and the state of Florida differ markedly in effective property‑tax rates, home‑value levels, and median household incomes. The table below presents the key figures side by side.
| Metric | District of Columbia | Florida |
|---|---|---|
| Effective property‑tax rate | 0.58 % | 0.79 % |
| Median home value | $724,600 | $325,000 |
| Median annual property tax | $4,180 | $2,555 |
| Tax on a $250,000 home | $1,442 | $1,966 |
| Tax on a $500,000 home | $2,885 | $3,931 |
| Median household income | $106,287 | $71,711 |
| Reference links | District of Columbia property tax | Florida property tax |
Who Wins on Property‑Tax Burden?
- Winner (lower effective rate): District of Columbia
- Absolute rate difference: 0.21 percentage points
- Relative difference: 26.62 % lower than Florida’s rate (0.21 % ÷ 0.79 % ≈ 0.266)
Because the District’s effective property‑tax rate is lower, a homeowner would pay less tax on the same assessed value:
| Home value | DC tax | FL tax | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| $250,000 | $1,442 | $1,966 | $524 less in DC |
| $500,000 | $2,885 | $3,931 | $1,046 less in DC |
The lower rate in the District of Columbia translates into a smaller tax bill for any given property value, even though the median home price in DC is more than double Florida’s median.
Which Audiences Might Find This Comparison Most Relevant?
| Audience | Why the data matters |
|---|---|
| Current or prospective homeowners | Property‑tax rates directly affect the ongoing cost of owning a home. Buyers comparing similar‑price homes in the two jurisdictions can use the rate difference to estimate annual expenses. |
| Real‑estate investors | Investment returns depend on holding costs, including taxes. A lower effective rate (DC) reduces the tax component of operating expenses. |
| Retirees on fixed incomes | Although Florida is often cited for its lack of a state income tax, the higher property‑tax rate may offset some of that advantage, especially for retirees with modest home values. |
| Policy analysts / local government officials | The contrast illustrates how jurisdictions with different assessment practices and service levels can achieve divergent tax burdens. |
| Mortgage lenders / appraisers | Understanding local tax rates helps in calculating debt‑service ratios and accurate property valuations. |
Summary
Based on the most recent ACS estimates, the District of Columbia imposes a lower effective property‑tax rate (0.58 %) than Florida (0.79 %). The absolute difference of 0.21 % equates to a 26.6 % relative reduction, resulting in $524‑$1,046 less in annual property tax for typical home values of $250 k and $500 k, respectively.
While the District’s median home value and household income are substantially higher, the tax rate advantage may be especially relevant to homeowners and investors who prioritize lower recurring tax costs. Conversely, individuals for whom overall cost of living, state income tax, or climate are primary considerations may weigh other factors alongside property‑tax rates.
All figures are drawn from the U.S. Census Bureau's 2023 American Community Survey (5‑year estimates).
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Discover how property taxes compare across all states in our comprehensive comparison guide.
Data Source
All figures are drawn from the U.S. Census Bureau's 2023 American Community Survey (5‑year estimates). This comprehensive dataset provides reliable, standardized property tax information across all states.