Georgia vs Hawaii
Property‑Tax Comparison: Georgia vs. Hawaii
Summary
Both Georgia and Hawaii levy property taxes that fund local services such as schools, police, and infrastructure. According to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2023 American Community Survey (5‑year estimates), Hawaii’s effective property‑tax rate is substantially lower than Georgia’s, while the median home values and household incomes differ markedly. The table below presents the key metrics side‑by‑side.
Side‑by‑Side Metrics
| Metric | Georgia | Hawaii |
|---|---|---|
| Effective property‑tax rate | 0.81 % | 0.27 % |
| Median home value | $272,900 | $808,200 |
| Median annual property tax | $2,214 | $2,183 |
| Property tax on a $250,000 home | $2,028 | $675 |
| Property tax on a $500,000 home | $4,057 | $1,351 |
| Median household income | $74,664 | $98,317 |
Sources: According to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2023 American Community Survey (5‑year estimates).
Which State “Wins” on Property Taxes?
- Lower tax rate: Hawaii, with an effective rate of 0.27 % versus Georgia’s 0.81 %.
- Rate difference: 0.54 percentage points, representing a 66.71 % lower rate in Hawaii.
- Annual tax difference on a $250 k home: $1,353 less in Hawaii.
- Annual tax difference on a $500 k home: $2,706 less in Hawaii.
Because the comparison is based on the effective tax rate, Hawaii is the winner for lower property‑tax burden.
Who Might Benefit Most from This Comparison?
| Audience | Relevance of Findings |
|---|---|
| Current homeowners | Those evaluating the ongoing cost of owning a home will see that, despite higher home values, Hawaii’s lower rate yields a slightly lower median annual tax ($2,183) compared with Georgia’s $2,214. |
| Prospective buyers | Buyers focused on tax efficiency may favor Hawaii if the lower rate offsets the higher purchase price, especially for mid‑range homes ($250k–$500k). |
| Retirees | Retirees on fixed incomes often consider property‑tax burden. Hawaii’s lower rate reduces annual tax outlays, though the higher median home price could affect affordability. |
| Investors | Investors comparing cash‑flow projections should account for the lower tax expense in Hawaii, but also the larger capital outlay required for a typical property. |
| Policy analysts | The data illustrate how tax structures differ across states, providing a baseline for fiscal policy comparisons. |
Additional Resources
- Detailed information on Georgia’s property‑tax system: Georgia property tax
- Detailed information on Hawaii’s property‑tax system: Hawaii property tax
Note: All figures reflect the most recent ACS estimates (2023 5‑year) and are presented without adjustment for local assessment practices, exemptions, or recent legislative changes. Users should consult state‑level tax authorities for the latest rates and any applicable deductions.
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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.