A new study by Florida Tax Watch has ranked all 67 counties in Florida based on property taxes, providing a factual basis for ongoing discussions about tax reduction and potential elimination. The report comes as Republican leaders in the state are prioritizing property tax cuts in the upcoming legislative session.
Key Takeaways
- The statewide average of per capita tax levies stands at $2,397.57.
- Palm Beach County ranks fourth overall in per capita property taxes.
- St. Lucie County leads the state in average millage rate.
- Port St. Lucie has experienced significant property tax growth over the past decade.
- State officials are scrutinizing county and city spending, though some figures are disputed.
Property Tax Rankings Across Florida
Florida Tax Watch’s comprehensive report aims to establish an "informed factual basis" for debates surrounding property taxes. According to Dominic Calabro, president and CEO of Florida Tax Watch, property taxes have escalated rapidly, partly due to Florida’s economic success.
The study highlights that the statewide average per capita tax levy is $2,397.57. Among the counties examined, Palm Beach County is ranked fourth with $3,741.67 per capita. Martin County follows in fifth place at $3,656.86. Indian River County is 15th ($2,537.59), St. Lucie County is 18th ($2,307.45), and Okeechobee County is 31st ($1,645.69).
In terms of school taxes per capita, Palm Beach County ranks fifth ($1,4543.48), Martin County ninth ($1,337.17), Indian River County 12th ($1,097.71), St. Lucie County 22nd ($756.38), and Okeechobee County 28th ($681.64).
Furthermore, St. Lucie County holds the top position in the state for its average millage rate, which is the tax rate used to determine property taxes.
City Tax Growth and Legislative Focus
The study also examined property tax growth in cities over the last decade. Port St. Lucie recorded the fourth-largest increase at 257%. West Palm Beach ranked 15th with 156.3% growth, and several other cities, including Boynton Beach, Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, and Wellington, also appeared in the top 50 for tax growth.
Cutting or even eliminating property taxes is a key priority for the Republican-controlled state legislature as they prepare for the next session in January. Florida Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia emphasized accountability for spending, stating that his auditors have identified nearly $2 billion in wasteful spending across 11 counties and cities. He specifically noted $344 million in potential waste in Palm Beach County, a figure disputed by county officials. Palm Beach County Administrator Joseph Abruzzo questioned the methodology behind the figure, noting that such a cut would significantly impact the county’s budget.