Washington Property Tax: Everything You Need to Know 2024

Washington State’s property taxes adhere to strict regulations limiting the tax burden on homeowners. General, non-voter-approved taxes are capped at 1%, with annual increases also limited to 1%. Consequently, Washington’s average effective tax rate is 0.84%, lower than the national average of 0.99%. However, high property values result in a typical annual payment of $4,061.

How Washington Property Tax Works

Property taxes constitute about 30% of Washington’s state and local revenue, funding essential services like fire protection, schools, and parks. Taxes are calculated based on two main factors:

1. Assessed Value of the Property: Determined by annual market-based revaluations and physical inspections every six years. This ensures that property assessments reflect true market conditions.
2. Applicable Tax Rate: Calculated using the total assessed value within a tax district and the taxing authority’s budget. For example, if the total assessed value is $500,000 and the taxing authority needs $2,500 in revenue, the rate would be 0.5%.

Annual levy increases are limited to 1% or the inflation rate, whichever is lower. However, this restriction doesn’t apply to new levies, annexations, or new construction.

Washington Property Tax Rates by County

Tax rates in Washington State are expressed in dollars per thousand in assessed value, equal to one-tenth of a percent. The table below shows the effective tax rate for every county in Washington State, which is the amount paid annually as a percentage of overall home value.

County	Median Home Value	Median Annual Property Tax Payment	Average Effective Property Tax Rate
Adams	$159,600	$1,698	1.06%
Asotin	$211,900	$1,997	0.94%
Benton	$255,000	$2,831	1.11%
Chelan	$311,900	$3,130	1.00%
Clallam	$267,900	$2,690	1.00%
Clark	$355,000	$3,855	1.09%
Columbia	$199,600	$2,021	1.01%
Cowlitz	$245,500	$2,873	1.17%
Douglas	$284,900	$2,459	0.86%
Ferry	$183,000	$1,330	0.73%
Franklin	$226,500	$2,472	1.09%
Garfield	$152,400	$1,259	0.83%
Grant	$191,600	$1,991	1.04%
Grays Harbor	$192,600	$2,031	1.05%
Island	$382,900	$3,475	0.91%
Jefferson	$362,300	$2,849	0.79%
King	$601,100	$6,328	1.05%
Kitsap	$362,700	$3,719	1.03%
Kittitas	$315,800	$2,502	0.79%
Klickitat	$281,600	$1,840	0.65%
Lewis	$231,900	$2,346	1.01%
Lincoln	$173,000	$1,443	0.83%
Mason	$249,100	$2,679	1.08%
Okanogan	$205,300	$1,785	0.87%
Pacific	$185,600	$1,923	1.04%
Pend Oreille	$243,100	$1,727	0.71%
Pierce	$336,600	$4,306	1.28%
San Juan	$535,200	$3,342	0.62%
Skagit	$341,600	$3,924	1.15%
Skamania	$335,600	$2,495	0.74%
Snohomish	$440,100	$4,791	1.09%
Spokane	$245,400	$2,934	1.20%
Stevens	$219,500	$1,648	0.75%
Thurston	$315,600	$3,612	1.14%
Wahkiakum	$228,600	$1,671	0.73%
Walla Walla	$244,400	$2,617	1.07%
Whatcom	$369,000	$3,736	1.01%
Whitman	$230,200	$2,217	0.96%
Yakima	$191,400	$2,027	1.06%

Data Source: Public Records and County Assessor Offices

County-Specific Information

Benton County

How Do Property Taxes in Benton County Compare to the State and National Averages?

Benton County offers a favorable property tax landscape compared to both the state and national standards. Homeowners in this area typically pay around $2,831 annually in property taxes, with an average effective tax rate of 1.11%. While this rate is slightly above the state average of 0.84%, the median annual tax payment is below the national median. Residents of Benton County experience savings of nearly $1,200 annually compared to the state median, highlighting the county’s more affordable tax rates.

This makes Benton County an attractive location for homeowners looking to reduce their annual property expenses while still residing within proximity to state amenities.

Thurston County

How Do Property Taxes in Thurston County Affect Homeowners?

Thurston County, located at the southern tip of the Puget Sound and home to Washington’s state capital, Olympia, has an average effective tax rate of 1.14%. This rate is higher than the state average but reflects the value of services funded by these taxes, such as education, public safety, and infrastructure.

Impact on Homeowners:

• Financial Planning: Homeowners need to budget for property taxes as part of their annual expenses. For instance, with a home valued at $315,600 (the median home value), the annual property tax would be approximately $3,612.
• Affordability: This tax rate can influence the affordability of a home. Prospective buyers should consider this cost when evaluating their overall budget for purchasing a home in Thurston County.
• Community Services: The funds collected from property taxes support local services like education, public safety, and infrastructure. Homeowners benefit from these services, which can enhance the community’s appeal and potentially increase property values over time.

Understanding the property tax landscape in Thurston County is crucial for financial planning and assessing the true cost of homeownership. By accounting for these taxes, buyers and existing homeowners can better manage their expenses and appreciate the value of the community’s public services.

Pierce County

How Do Property Taxes in Pierce County Differ from Other Counties in Washington?

Pierce County has the highest property tax rates in Washington, with an average effective rate of 1.28%. Recent increases are primarily attributed to new voter-approved levies for projects like school construction, while general levies have remained relatively stable with annual increases of no more than 1%.

Understanding the impact of voter-approved levies is essential for homeowners in Pierce County. These levies can significantly increase the total tax rate, often surpassing the 1% threshold set for general taxes.

Whatcom County

What Is the Property Tax Situation in Whatcom County, Washington?

Whatcom County, located in the northwest corner of Washington along the Canadian border, has an average effective property tax rate of 1.01%. With a median home value of $369,000 and an annual property tax of $3,736, the county’s tax rate is slightly higher than the state average but remains competitive. This combination makes Whatcom County a compelling choice for those seeking a balance between property value and tax obligations.

Yakima County

How Do Property Tax Rates in Yakima County Compare to Other Counties in the State?

Yakima County, situated in central Washington just east of the Cascade crest, has a median home value of $191,400, one of the lowest in the state. The average effective tax rate is 1.06%, slightly above the state average. Homeowners pay an average of $2,027 annually in property taxes. Although the tax rate is slightly higher, the lower property values result in relatively modest tax payments compared to other counties.

How to Calculate Property Taxes in Washington and Other States

How Can I Calculate My Property Taxes in Washington?

To calculate your property taxes in Washington, follow these steps:

1. Determine Your Property’s Assessed Value: This information is available through your county assessor’s office or website.
2. Find the Applicable Tax Rate: Include both the general tax rate (capped at 1%) and any special voter-approved levies that apply to your area.
3. Calculate Your Property Tax: Multiply your property’s assessed value by the total applicable tax rate.

Example Calculation:

• Assessed Value: $300,000
• General Tax Rate: 1%
• Voter-Approved Levies: 0.2%
• Total Tax Rate: 1% + 0.2% = 1.2%
• Annual Property Tax: $300,000 x 1.2% = $3,600

How Can One Calculate Property Taxes in Other States Like Alaska, Idaho, or Oregon?

Calculating property taxes in other states involves understanding each state’s specific assessment rules and tax rates:

Alaska

Property taxes are typically calculated based on a mill rate, which is the amount per $1,000 of assessed value. Local governments may apply exemptions for primary residences.

Idaho

Taxes are generally based on a percentage of the property’s market value, determined by county assessors annually.

Oregon

Oregon employs a unique system with limitations on the growth of assessed values and taxes capped under Measure 50, which might make calculations less straightforward.

Steps to Calculate:

1. Determine Assessed Value: Obtain the current assessed value from local county assessor’s offices or websites.
2. Apply the Tax Rate: Use the state’s property tax rate, applying any relevant exemptions or deductions.
3. Calculate: Multiply the assessed value by the tax rate, and adjust for any local variations or special assessments.

Using Online Resources:

• Local Government Websites: Provide insights into assessed values and tax rates.
• Online Calculators: Websites like Zillow or Realtor.com offer calculators tailored to each state’s guidelines.

Impact of Voter-Approved Levies on Property Tax Rates in Washington

How Do Voter-Approved Levies Affect Property Tax Rates in Washington?

Voter-approved levies significantly impact property tax rates in Washington:

• Exceeding the 1% Cap: These levies are not subject to the constitutional 1% cap on general tax rates, meaning the total property tax rate can exceed 1%.
• Flexibility in Funding: They allow communities to fund specific projects like school construction, parks, or emergency services.
• Community Investment: Reflect the priorities and needs of residents, leading to enhancements in local services and infrastructure.

Understanding the impact of voter-approved levies is essential for homeowners, as they can significantly increase the total tax rate and affect annual property tax payments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Do Home Values Influence Property Tax Payments in Washington?

Higher home values lead to higher property tax payments, even if the tax rate remains the same. As property values increase due to market conditions, the assessed value used for tax calculations also rises, resulting in higher taxes.

The assessment of a property’s value is influenced by annual revaluations using market data and physical inspections that occur at least every six years. This ensures that property assessments reflect true market conditions, directly influencing the tax burden on homeowners.

How Do Property Tax Rates in Washington Compare to Other States?

Washington State’s average effective tax rate is 0.84%, which is lower than the national average of 0.99%. This lower rate makes Washington an attractive option for homeowners seeking lower property tax obligations. However, the state’s high home prices result in a typical annual property tax payment of $4,061, which can be higher than in states with lower property values.

Where to Find Washington Property Tax Help

For assistance with Washington property taxes or general state tax information, contact XOA TAX Service. We can connect you with a tax consultant specializing in Washington state taxes.

• Phone: +1 (714) 594-6986
• Email: [email protected]

For specific advice on appeals, the King County Tax Advisor provides assistance:

• Phone: 206-477-1060 or 1-800-325-6165 ext. 7-1060
• Email: [email protected]

Further Reading

• Nevada Property Tax: Key Highlights
• Utah Property Tax: County’s Tax Rates
• Arizona Property Tax: Get to Know Your Tax
• How the New Mexico Property Tax Works
• Wisconsin Property Tax: How It Works?

Conclusion

Understanding the property tax landscape in Washington State is crucial for homeowners and prospective buyers. By being informed about how taxes are calculated, the impact of home values, and the role of voter-approved levies, individuals can make better financial decisions and appreciate the value of the community services funded by these taxes.