Florida Property Tax Calculator
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- 5 min read
What is the Property Tax Rate in Florida?
Based on HomeLight’s analysis of publicly available data, the average effective property tax rate for a primary residence in Florida is approximately 0.82% of its estimated value. This is lower than the national average of 0.90%.
For example, with a 0.82% effective tax rate, a homeowner with a $415,000 home might pay around $3,403 in annual property taxes.
An effective property tax rate represents the actual percentage of a property’s market value that a homeowner pays in taxes, considering the assessed value and any exemptions or deductions.
Note: HomeLight’s Florida property tax calculator provides a ballpark estimate for a primary residence using average rates. Your tax can vary based on location and the specific taxing districts (e.g., schools, fire districts, and libraries) that apply to your parcel. For a precise number, contact the Florida Department of Revenue.
Step One: Consult with a Trusted Buyer's Agent
Tell us a little bit about your plans (where you’re looking to buy and when you want to make a purchase), and we’ll connect you with top-rated buyer’s agents in your area. It takes only a few minutes, and it’s free.
Are There Property Tax Exemptions in Florida?
Homeowners in Florida may qualify for several property tax exemptions that can lower their tax bill. Depending on your location, these are offered through the Florida Department of Revenue. Common exemptions include:
- General homestead exemption: Some Florida homeowners can qualify for a property tax exemption up to $50,000.
- Over-65 exemption: Eligible seniors can apply for an exemption if they are 65 years of age.
- Disabled individual exemption: Disabled individuals can qualify for property tax exemptions.
- Military or veteran exemption: Veterans or military are able to apply for an exemption.
- Surviving spouse exemption: Widows, widowers, or surviving spouses of first responders can qualify for possible property tax exemptions.
If you’re buying a home in Florida, note that property tax exemptions do not automatically transfer from the previous owner. After the house changes hands, you must reapply based on your eligibility.
When Are Florida Property Taxes Due?
Property taxes in Florida are billed annually on November 1st.
What Do Property Taxes Pay For in Florida?
Local property taxes in Florida pay for important local services, including:
- Public schools
- Police, fire, and EMS services
- Roads, streets, and traffic signals
- Parks, libraries, and community centers
- City and county government operations
- Infrastructure like water, sewer, and trash services
- Repayment of local bond projects (such as transit and school improvements)
Yes, You Can Buy Before You Sell. Why Move Twice?
Through our Buy Before You Sell program, HomeLight can help you unlock a portion of your equity upfront to put toward your next home. You can then make a strong offer on your next home with no home sale contingency.
What Does It Cost to Buy a Home in Florida?
How Much House Can You Afford?
Affordability in Florida depends on your income, debt, credit score, and mortgage rate. With a median household income of around $72,200 in the Sunshine State, a buyer might afford a home of around $238,000 using standard debt-to-income guidelines. However, with the Florida median home price exceeding $415,000, many buyers need dual incomes or additional savings to qualify.
Use HomeLight’s Home Affordability Calculator to estimate your budget based on your income, debts, and current rates.
What Down Payment Will You Need in Florida?
According to Visual Capitalist, the average down payment on a house in Florida is 17.0%. However, down payment amounts vary widely depending on loan type and credit score. While 20% used to be the expected standard, many buyers put down between 5% and 15%, with 3% options available for FHA and some conventional first-time buyer loans.
For a $415,000 home, here’s what your down payment could look like:
- 3% down = $12,450
- 5% down = $20,750
- 10% down = $41,500
- 15% down = $62,250
- 20% down = $83,000
Try HomeLight’s Down Payment Calculator to see how different down payments affect your monthly payment and loan size.
How Much Are Closing Costs in Florida?
Buyers in Florida can expect to pay about 2% to 5% of the purchase price in closing costs. These may include:
- Loan origination and underwriting fees
- Title insurance and escrow fees
- Appraisal and inspection costs
- Prepaid property taxes and homeowners’ insurance
- Filing and recording fees
For a $415,000 home, that means estimated closing costs of $8,300 to $20,750. Use HomeLight’s Closing Costs Calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your expected Florida home purchase price.
How To Find a Trusted Florida Real Estate Agent
An experienced Florida agent can help you understand local tax rates, school districts, and development trends — and guide you toward neighborhoods that fit your lifestyle and budget.
HomeLight’s free Agent Match tool uses data from over 27 million transactions and thousands of verified reviews to match you with top Florida agents based on proven performance. Tell us a little about your buying plans and get matched today with no obligation.
Additional resources when searching for a trusted buyer’s agent in Florida:
Buying and Selling? Consider “Buy Before You Sell”
If you’re buying a new home in Florida but need to sell your current property first, HomeLight’s Buy Before You Sell program can simplify the entire process. This modern solution helps you unlock equity from your current home so you can make a non-contingent offer on your new home — and only move once. Watch the short video below to see how it works.