Florida Considers Eliminating Property Taxes

In a bold and unprecedented move, Florida lawmakers are considering eliminating property taxes statewide in response to the mounting costs of homeownership. With home prices and insurance premiums continuing to rise, the proposal aims to ease the financial burden on homeowners—especially retirees and residents on fixed incomes—by shifting state revenue collection toward an increased sales tax model.

The idea, gaining traction in Tallahassee and backed by Governor Ron DeSantis, is being marketed as a way to make homeownership more affordable and keep long-time residents from being priced out of their homes. With property taxes currently serving as a significant revenue stream for schools, emergency services, and infrastructure, critics argue the plan raises serious concerns about how essential public services will be funded moving forward.

Proponents claim Florida’s growing economy and strong tourism base make a sales-tax-driven model feasible, pointing to the state’s lack of an income tax as evidence of successful unconventional policy. However, skeptics caution that increasing sales tax could disproportionately impact low-income residents while reducing stable funding for education and municipal operations.

If passed, Florida would become the first state in the nation to eliminate property taxes entirely—an experiment that would almost certainly draw national attention. Supporters say the reform could position Florida as an even more attractive destination for homeowners and investors. Opponents warn it could destabilize local governments and strain vital services.

The proposal remains under review, with more details expected in the coming legislative sessions. Regardless of the outcome, the debate highlights the intensifying pressures of affordability in Florida’s housing market—and the lengths policymakers may go to find relief. For now, homeowners and real estate professionals across the state are watching closely as this radical idea makes its way through the political pipeline.

https://www.wsj.com/us-news/florida-state-property-tax-home-prices-2ab0e932