Understanding Property Taxes by the Beach: All You Need To Know

You’re sipping your coffee on the porch of a coastal home. The ocean breeze is soft, the neighborhood is quiet, and your heart says, yes. Whether you’re buying your first vacation home, investing in a rental property, or dreaming of living by the water full-time, there’s one smart question that always comes up:

“What are the property tax rates?”

If you’re looking in Destin, Miramar Beach, or along 30A, understanding property taxes in Florida—and how they apply to coastal communities—is a smart part of the process.

Here’s everything you need to know about property tax rates, how they’re calculated, and what to expect when buying real estate near the beach.

📍 What Are the Property Tax Rates on Florida’s Emerald Coast?

1. Florida Has No State Income Tax—So Property Tax Matters More

Florida is a popular place to buy a second home or relocate full-time because there’s no state income tax. That makes property tax one of the main revenue sources for counties and local services.

So while the state tax burden is low overall, you’ll want to understand what’s due annually on the property you buy.

2. Walton County (30A & Miramar Beach)

Most of the 30A communities—like Seaside, Rosemary Beach, Grayton, and Blue Mountain—as well as Miramar Beach fall within Walton County.

✅ Property Tax Rate: Around 0.65% of assessed value
✅ Below the national average (which is ~1%)
✅ Homestead Exemptions are available for full-time residents

Example:
If your 30A home is assessed at $1,000,000, your annual taxes would be roughly $6,500, before exemptions.

Destin Dreamers Tip: Most second homeowners don’t qualify for full homestead exemptions—but may still benefit from capped increases under Florida’s “Save Our Homes” rule.

3. Okaloosa County (Destin & Fort Walton Beach)

Destin and the nearby areas to the west fall under Okaloosa County, which also offers relatively low tax rates compared to other U.S. coastal destinations.

✅ Property Tax Rate: About 0.65% – 0.70%
✅ Includes county services, schools, and fire districts
✅ Slightly higher in incorporated areas (like downtown Destin)

Example:
A home in Destin assessed at $750,000 would result in annual property taxes of roughly $4,875–$5,250, before exemptions.

💡 How Are Property Taxes Calculated?

Florida counties use a “millage rate” system to calculate taxes. Here’s the basic breakdown:

1. Market Value – Determined by the county property appraiser
2. Assessed Value – May be lower than market value due to caps or exemptions
3. Millage Rate – Applied to the assessed value to determine what you owe
4. Exemptions – Reduce the amount you pay if you qualify (e.g., Homestead, Senior, Disability)

🏠 Property Tax Considerations for Second Homeowners & Investors

If you’re buying a vacation rental, investment property, or second home, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• You won’t receive a homestead exemption unless the property is your primary residence
• Your assessed value will reset to market value at the time of purchase
• Taxes can increase annually based on local millage changes or rising home values
• You can still write off property taxes as part of your investment expenses (consult a CPA!)

Pro Tip: Your property manager or real estate agent can give you a tax estimate before you close.

💬 Common Questions About Property Taxes in Destin & 30A

When are property taxes due in Florida?
Taxes are assessed as of January 1 each year and are due by March 31 of the following year. Pay early (in November) for a discount.

Can I appeal my property’s assessed value?
Yes! If you believe your property is over-assessed, you can file a petition with the county appraiser’s office during the annual appeal window.

How do I get the homestead exemption?
You must own and occupy the home as your permanent primary residence by January 1 of the year you’re applying. Applications are typically due by March 1.

Will owning a rental affect my tax rate?
No, the rate is the same. But you won’t qualify for exemptions, and your insurance costs may be higher depending on occupancy and storm protection.

🏡 Destin Dreamers: Helping You Buy Smart, Live Easy

At Destin Dreamers, we help you understand every part of homeownership—from dream-worthy views to financial realities like taxes and insurance.

We offer:

• Referrals to local real estate experts and appraisers
• Guidance on vacation rental profitability vs. tax obligations
• Recommendations for 1031 exchange strategies, CPA partners, and investment tips
• Smart advice for buying homes in communities with reasonable taxes and strong long-term value

Because we believe in living beautifully and building wisely.

Final Numbers: A Smart Step Toward Ownership

So, what are the property tax rates in Destin and 30A? They’re affordable by coastal standards, made smarter by Florida’s lack of income tax, and manageable when you know what to expect.

Let Destin Dreamers help you turn your curiosity into clarity—and guide you toward a beachside investment that’s both dreamy and doable. 💰🌊🏡

Want a personalized tax estimate for a home you’re eyeing? Ask us about investment rental tax projections or smart buyer tools for the Emerald Coast.