Florida does have property tax, but the rate is lower than most states

Florida collects property tax on real estate you own. The state does not impose a state income tax, which is why property tax is a larger source of revenue for local governments. The tax is assessed by your county, not by the state, so the amount you pay depends on where your property is located.

Property tax in Florida is calculated by multiplying your property's assessed value by the millage rate set by your county and local taxing authorities. A millage rate is expressed in mills — each mill equals $1 of tax per $1,000 of assessed value. Most Florida counties charge between 7 and 12 mills, though this varies significantly by location.

Key Takeaways

  • Florida has property tax on real estate, assessed and collected by your county, with rates varying by location.
  • Your property tax bill is calculated by taking your assessed property value and multiplying it by your county's millage rate.
  • Homeowners may reduce their tax bill through the homestead exemption, which lowers the assessed value used in the calculation.
  • Property tax bills are due by March 31 each year, and unpaid taxes can result in a tax deed sale of your property.
  • Agricultural land, senior properties, and disabled veteran properties may may have access to for lower assessment rates under Florida law.

How your property value is assessed

The county property appraiser determines the assessed value of your property each year. This value is based on recent sales of comparable properties in your area, the condition of your home, and any improvements you have made. The appraiser does not use the price you paid for the property unless you recently purchased it.

You have the right to challenge the assessed value if you believe it is too high. Most counties allow you to file a petition with the Value Adjustment Board (VAB) between January 1 and the date the tax roll is certified — usually in late July or early August. You will need to provide evidence that the assessed value exceeds the fair market value of your property, such as recent appraisals or comparable sales data.

The homestead exemption and other tax breaks

If you own a home in Florida and it is your primary residence, you may be may have access to to the homestead exemption. This exemption reduces the assessed value of your home by $50,000 for school tax purposes and by the full amount of the exemption for other local taxes. To claim it, you must file a homestead exemption application with your county property appraiser by March 1 of the year you want the exemption to take effect.

Florida also offers additional exemptions for seniors (age 65 and older), disabled persons, and disabled veterans. These exemptions can reduce your assessed value further or freeze it at a certain level. Each exemption has specific income limits and documentation requirements, so contact your county property appraiser to learn which ones you may be able to use.

When your property tax bill is due

Property tax bills are issued by your county tax collector in November and are due by March 31 of the following year. You will receive a notice in the mail showing the assessed value, the millage rate, and the amount you owe. If you do not receive a bill, contact your county tax collector directly — not receiving a bill does not erase your obligation to pay.

If you do not pay by March 31, a penalty and interest are added to your bill. If taxes remain unpaid for two years, the county may sell your property at a tax deed sale. The tax deed process begins with a public sale, and if no one purchases the property, the county may take ownership and eventually sell it.

Property tax for different types of property

Residential property — single-family homes, condominiums, and townhouses — is assessed at 100 percent of fair market value. Commercial property, agricultural land, and vacant land may be assessed differently. Agricultural land used for farming, ranching, or forestry may be assessed at a lower rate based on its use value rather than its market value, provided you meet specific acreage and use requirements.

If you own rental property or a second home, the homestead exemption does not apply. These properties are assessed at the full market value and taxed at the same millage rate as your primary residence, though some local taxing authorities may have different rates for different property types.

How to find your property tax information

Your county property appraiser's office maintains public records of all property assessments and tax information. You can search for your property online through your county's property appraiser website, which is usually linked from the county government website. The search will show your assessed value, exemptions, and recent tax history.

Your county tax collector's office handles billing and payment. You can pay your property tax bill online, by mail, or in person at the tax collector's office. Many counties offer payment plans if you cannot pay the full amount by the deadline, though penalties and interest will continue to accrue.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I pay my property tax late?

A penalty of 3 percent is added immediately, plus interest at 18 percent per year. If taxes remain unpaid for two years, the county begins the tax deed sale process. You can still redeem the property by paying the full amount owed plus costs, but the window to do so closes once a tax deed is issued.

Can I deduct Florida property tax on my federal income tax return?

Yes, property tax is deductible on your federal return as a state and local tax (SALT). However, the total deduction for all state and local taxes combined is capped at $10,000 per year for federal tax purposes. Consult a tax professional about how this affects your specific situation.

Does Florida charge property tax on vehicles or personal property?

Florida does not charge annual property tax on vehicles. However, you must pay a one-time registration fee when you register a vehicle with the Department of Motor Vehicles. Some counties charge an additional surtax on vehicle registrations.

What if I inherit property in Florida — do I owe property tax immediately?

Yes, property tax is owed on inherited property starting the year after the previous owner's death. The assessed value may change during the probate process. Contact your county property appraiser to update ownership records and discuss any exemptions you may be may have access to to claim.