What are the property tax rates by county in Northern Virginia – Expert Answer for Northern Virginia
In Northern Virginia, property tax rates typically range from 0.80% to 1.15% of assessed property value, translating to $5,720 to $8,225 annually on a $715,000 Fairfax County home. As of January 2026, property taxes in Arlington and Loudoun are also competitive, impacting home affordability. With 200+ NOVA transactions since 2012, I help clients navigate these costs effectively. Call (571) 233-2763 for personalized insights.
In This Article
Property Tax Rates in Northern Virginia – What You Need to Know
In Fairfax County, property tax rates are set at 1.15%, which means homeowners pay approximately $8,225 annually on a median-priced home of $715,000. Areas like Vienna and McLean see these rates directly impacting home affordability, making it crucial for buyers to factor this into their budget.
Arlington County has a slightly lower tax rate at 1.0%, translating to about $6,900 annually for the same home price. The proximity to Metro stations in neighborhoods like Clarendon and Ballston can further influence property values, making understanding these taxes essential for potential buyers.
With over 200 transactions in Northern Virginia since 2012, I’ve seen firsthand how property tax rates affect buyer decisions. Understanding these rates can help you make informed choices about where to invest. Ready to discuss your situation? Call (571) 233-2763 or book a free consultation.
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Key Property Tax Information for Northern Virginia
Here’s what NOVA buyers and sellers need to know in January 2026:
Fairfax County – The Numbers
Fairfax County’s property tax rate of 1.15% means homeowners pay around $8,225 annually on a $715,000 home. This rate is among the highest in the region, impacting affordability in neighborhoods like Oakton and Burke.
What’s Changed Since August 2024
Since the August 2024 NAR settlement, buyers in Arlington and Alexandria have more negotiating power regarding property taxes, potentially saving thousands. The tax rate in Arlington is currently 1.0%, which can influence buyer decisions significantly.
What Most People Miss
Many buyers overlook the impact of local tax rates on their overall budget. For example, homes in Great Falls may have higher assessed values, leading to higher taxes. Understanding these nuances can save you money in the long run.
Northern Virginia Market Insights – January 2026
Understanding property tax rates requires knowing your local market:
| County | Median Price | Days on Market | Character |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fairfax County | $715,000 | 9 days | Most competitive |
| Loudoun County | $680,000 | 11 days | Tech corridor growth |
| Arlington County | $690,000 | 12 days | Metro-centric, urban |
| Prince William County | $495,000 | 14 days | Best value in NOVA |
| Alexandria City | $690,000 | 12 days | Old Town premium |
Source: Bright MLS, January 2026
What this means: Understanding property tax rates is crucial for budgeting in NOVA. Ready to discuss your options? Call (571) 233-2763 or book a free consultation.
Expert Tips from Paul Sneeringer
Tip 1: Understand Local Rates
Research property tax rates in specific neighborhoods like Vienna and McLean, as they can vary significantly, impacting your overall budget.
Tip 2: Factor in Assessments
Be aware of how property assessments work in Arlington and Alexandria, as they can affect your tax bill and future home value.
Tip 3: Timing Matters
Consider the timing of your purchase, especially during the military PCS season (May-August), when demand and prices can fluctuate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Property taxes in Northern Virginia typically range from 0.80% to 1.15% of the assessed value. For a $715,000 home in Fairfax County, this translates to approximately $8,225 annually. Understanding these costs is crucial for budgeting when buying in areas like Vienna and McLean.
The property tax assessment process in Northern Virginia typically occurs annually, with notices sent out in the spring. Homeowners can expect to receive their assessments by May, allowing time to appeal if necessary. This timeline is crucial for buyers in Arlington and Alexandria.
In Fairfax County, property taxes are based on the assessed value of your home, currently at 1.15%. This means a $715,000 home incurs about $8,225 in taxes annually. Buyers should factor this into their budget when considering neighborhoods like Oakton and Burke.
Property taxes are mandatory fees paid to local governments based on property value, while HOA fees are voluntary charges for community services. In areas like Arlington, where property taxes are 1.0%, understanding both costs is essential for budgeting.
To appeal your property tax assessment in Northern Virginia, submit a written appeal to your local Board of Equalization within 30 days of receiving your assessment notice. With my experience, I can guide you through this process. Call (571) 233-2763 to get started.
Continue Your Northern Virginia Real Estate Journey
Explore Our Northern Virginia Real Estate County Guides:
- Fairfax County – $715K median, most inventory
- Loudoun County – Tech hub, Ashburn/Leesburg
- Arlington County – Urban condos, Metro access
- Prince William County – Best value under $500K
Popular Northern Virginia Real Estate City Guides:
- Vienna – Top FCPS schools, Maple Ave charm
- McLean – Luxury estates, Langley High district
- Reston – Town Center, trails, Silver Line
- Ashburn – New construction, data center jobs
Helpful Northern Virginia Real Estate Resources:
- First-Time Buyer Guide – Step-by-step for NOVA
- Seller’s Checklist – Prep your home right
- Relocation Guide – Moving to NOVA?
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Paul Sneeringer · Northern Virginia Real Estate
⭐ 4.9 Stars · 200+ Sold · 12 Years
Loudoun
Arlington
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