Florida vs Washington
Property‑Tax Comparison: Florida vs. Washington
Short introduction
Both Florida and Washington levy property taxes that fund local services such as schools, roads, and public safety. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2023 American Community Survey (5‑year estimates), Florida’s effective property‑tax rate is slightly lower than Washington’s, while the median home value and median household income are higher in Washington. The figures below provide a side‑by‑side view of the key metrics that affect homeowners in each state.
Side‑by‑side comparison
| Metric (2023 ACS) | Florida | Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Effective property‑tax rate | 0.79 % | 0.84 % |
| Median home value | $325,000 | $519,800 |
| Median annual property tax | $2,555 | $4,361 |
| Property tax on a $250,000 home | $1,966 | $2,098 |
| Property tax on a $500,000 home | $3,931 | $4,195 |
| Median household income | $71,711 | $94,952 |
Sources: “According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2023 American Community Survey (5‑year estimates).”
Which state “wins” on property tax?
- Winner (lower tax rate): Florida
- Rate difference: 0.05 percentage points, which is a 6.29 % relative difference (0.05 ÷ 0.79 ≈ 0.063).
Because the effective property‑tax rate is lower in Florida, the same‑valued property generates a smaller tax bill:
| Home value | Tax difference (Florida vs. Washington) |
|---|---|
| $250,000 | $132 less per year |
| $500,000 | $264 less per year |
The lower rate translates into modest annual savings for homeowners of comparable‑value homes, as shown above.
Who benefits most from this comparison?
| Audience | Relevance of the data |
|---|---|
| Current or prospective homeowners | The effective tax rate directly influences the yearly cost of owning a home. Buyers comparing similar‑priced properties will face lower property‑tax payments in Florida. |
| Retirees | Many retirees are sensitive to fixed‑income budgets. A lower property‑tax rate can reduce overall housing expenses, making Florida more attractive for those prioritizing tax efficiency. |
| Real‑estate investors | Investors evaluating cash‑flow calculations should factor in the 6.29 % lower tax burden in Florida when projecting net operating income. |
| Policy analysts / researchers | The side‑by‑side metrics provide a concise snapshot of how state‑level tax structures and median home values interact. |
The comparison does not account for other fiscal considerations (e.g., state income tax, sales tax, or local fee structures) that may affect overall cost of living.
Additional resources
- Detailed information on Florida’s property‑tax system: Florida property tax
- Detailed information on Washington’s property‑tax system: Washington property tax
Based on the most recent ACS estimates, the data presented here are factual and intended for informational use.
Explore More Comparisons
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.