Florida municipalities, and almost of them, have been riding the tax gravy train. County governments are disgusting with their bloated staffs, and overpaid civil servants rule citizens with an iron fist.
This year, the increases in revenue have continued, and governments have not let up. In Palm Beach Gardens, at a rate of 5.17 mills, the city generated $89 million in property-tax revenue—surpassing FY 2023 by $9.5 million. In Orlando, while the city held their millage rate at 6.6, revenue increased by 6% (about $21 million) due to rising property valuations.
Overall in 2024, the The average effective property tax rate in Florida was 1.14%, up 9.5% from the previous year and roughly 47.5% higher than pre-pandemic levels. Kiplinger reported that the average annual property tax bill climbed to $3,101, compared to a U.S. median of approximately $3,018.
Local governments also at local taxes for MSTU, or service benefit units. These are “special” taxes add to taxpayer bills. Add to that expanding fire and sheriff costs, which are often add ons to a tax bill, and you have a giant addition to the simple fact of holding on to a house.
The last few years have also seen increasing flood and homeowners insurance costs, and even increasing auto insurance rates. All of these fees add up to a disaster for even upper middle income homeowners. It is even hitting wealthy residents who own two residences. HOA and other association fees have also increased.
In recent weeks, Gov. Ron DeSantis has gone after these fees. He is right to do so, and will receive enormous support from residents for this effort. He would also do well to look at other fees. If you ask around even Sheriff’s budgets could use a look; ask around and few will tell you that they think their sheriff and fire budgets are perfectly spent.
Watch out, local government. A revolution may be coming your way.
