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Washington property tax calculator

Washington's effective property tax rate averages about 0.87% of market value — below the roughly 1.0% national average. That's roughly $5,307 a year on the state's $610,000 median home. The calculator is pre-filled with that rate.

$5,307 / year

Per month
$442.25
Assessed value
$610,000
Effective rate
0.87%

Rates vary by county and city — check your local assessor for the exact figure.

How it works

Your county assessor sets a taxable (assessed) value, which may be below market value, then applies the combined rate of every taxing body — county, city, school district, and any special levies. A homestead or senior exemption reduces the assessed value before the rate is applied, so an owner-occupied home often owes less than the headline rate on a rental or second home.

For comparison, homeowners insurance in Washington averages about $1,300 a year, so on the median home the tax bill is the larger of the two escrow items. Washington has no state income tax and a near-average property tax rate held down by a 1% annual limit on levy growth, but high Seattle-area prices keep the dollar payment among the nation's largest.

Frequently asked questions

What is the property tax rate in Washington?
Washington's effective property tax rate averages about 0.87% of a home's market value — below the roughly 1.0% national average. That works out to roughly $5,307 a year on the state's $610,000 median home.
How is property tax calculated in Washington?
Your county assessor sets a taxable (assessed) value, which may be below market value, then applies the combined rate of every taxing body — county, city, school district, and special levies. Exemptions like a homestead exemption reduce the assessed value first.
Property tax vs. homeowners insurance in Washington — which costs more?
On the median home, Washington property tax runs about $5,307 a year versus roughly $1,300 for insurance. Property tax is the larger of the two here.
Can I lower my property tax bill in Washington?
Most owners can file a homestead exemption on a primary residence, and you can appeal the assessed value if comparable sales suggest it's too high. Senior, veteran, and disability exemptions may also apply.

Learn more: How property tax works

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