What are property taxes like here?
Question & Answer about Hawaii
Updated April 26, 2026
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Hawaii State Facts
State Flag
Hawaii
Capital
Honolulu
State Bird
Nēnē Hawaiian Goose
Statehood
August 21, 1959
State Flower
Hibiscus
Population
1.4 million (2020)
Answer
Property taxes in Hawaii are relatively low compared to many other U.S. states, but the overall cost of living and property values are quite high. Hawaii’s property tax rates vary by county, with typical rates ranging from about 0.28% to 0.35% of assessed value annually. However, because home prices and land values in areas like Honolulu, Maui, and Kauai are among the highest in the nation, the actual tax bills can still be substantial.
Hawaii assesses property based on its market value, and the state offers exemptions and classifications that can affect tax rates. For example, owner-occupied residential properties usually benefit from lower tax rates compared to commercial or vacation rental properties. Agricultural land classifications also receive favorable tax treatment to support farming activities. Additionally, the state has a cap on how much assessed value can increase each year to help protect homeowners from sharp tax increases.
In summary, while the nominal property tax rates are low, the high property values combined with Hawaii’s unique market dynamics mean that property taxes can still be a significant expense for residents and investors.
Key Points:
- Property tax rates range roughly from 0.28% to 0.35% depending on county
- Taxes are based on market value with exemptions
Hawaii assesses property based on its market value, and the state offers exemptions and classifications that can affect tax rates. For example, owner-occupied residential properties usually benefit from lower tax rates compared to commercial or vacation rental properties. Agricultural land classifications also receive favorable tax treatment to support farming activities. Additionally, the state has a cap on how much assessed value can increase each year to help protect homeowners from sharp tax increases.
In summary, while the nominal property tax rates are low, the high property values combined with Hawaii’s unique market dynamics mean that property taxes can still be a significant expense for residents and investors.
Key Points:
- Property tax rates range roughly from 0.28% to 0.35% depending on county
- Taxes are based on market value with exemptions
