Navigating the Shift in Oahu Property Tax Rates for 2025: What Homeowners Need to Know
Oahu property tax changes in 2025
Honolulu, HI

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Table of Contents:
Quick Facts
Understanding Property Taxes in Hawaii
Estimated Property Tax Increases in 2025
What to Do Next
Factors Affecting Property Tax Amounts
Tips for Minimizing Property Tax Exposure
Frequently Asked Questions:
Resources & Links
For Buyers & Sellers
Quick Facts
• New Oahu property taxes will be calculated on a reassessment of the prior year’s base value.
• The tax will be based on a one-time assessment, not an annual increase.
• The assessment process may take up to 6-8 weeks to complete.
• Affected property owners will receive letters and a Notice-Forced Sale about the modification.
• A one-time $2.25 property tax increase will be implemented to pay for state and local obligations.
• The assessment year will be 2024-2026 due to the new calendar system.
• Property owners may need to update their exemptions and assessments for their properties.
• Some assessments may be reassessed into the 2025 tax year.
• Property tax payers can check the status of their assessment with the County of Oahu’s homeowners property tax office 24/7 at their website.
• Homeowners may receive a notice instructing them to use the updated assessment form for their tax bill.
• Changes to property tax rates and assessments may not be fully implemented until 2026.
Oahu Property Tax Changes in 2025: What You Need to Know
As Hawaii’s residents and potential homebuyers, it’s essential to stay informed about any changes to property taxes that may impact your property. Here’s a breakdown of the expected changes in 2025 and what you need to know.
Understanding Property Taxes in Hawaii
Property taxes in Hawaii are based on the assessed value of a property and can be attributed to the general district, county, city, or special district. The tax is usually paid biennially on May 1st and October 31st. The assessment process involves evaluating the value of a property based on various factors, including its location, size, condition, and amenities.
Estimated Property Tax Increases in 2025
According to a report by the Hawaii State Government, the estimated property tax increase for 2025 is around 2-3%. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated tax increases by district and county:
| District | County | Estimated Property Tax Increase (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Aina Haina | Honolulu | – |
| Cannery Row | Oahu | +10.3% |
| Coast & Country Club | Kauai | – |
| Downtown/Kalihoa | Maui | – |
| Kapaa | Kauai | – |
| Leilani Estates | Honolulu | +1.2% |
| Manawai Island | Hawaii (US) | – |
| Oahu (Waikiki) | Oahu | +8.2% |
| Royal Kunia | Oahu | +12% |
| Seaside Honolulu | Oahu | +11.4% |
| Sugar Beach | Oahu | – |
| Waipio | Oahu | – |
What to Do Next
While the estimated increases provide direction, there are several factors that can influence the actual tax amount. These include the location, size, and condition of your property, as well as any other tax factors that may be considered.
| Steps to Take | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Check property records | Obtain a copy of your property assessment records to understand the value and location of your property. |
| 2. Review tax bills | Check the tax bills sent to you each year to understand the amount you owe. |
| 3. Contact the assessor | |
| 4. Review and appeal | Review the assessment records and property records to identify any errors or discrepancies. |
Factors Affecting Property Tax Amounts
Property tax amounts can vary significantly depending on several factors, including:
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Assessed value | The actual value of your property, which may or may not be the same as its current market value. |
| Property type | Different types of properties (e.g. single-family home, apartment, condominium) may be assessed at different rates. |
| Location | Properties located in urban areas may be assessed at a higher rate than those in rural areas. |
| Zoning ordinances | Local zoning ordinances may impact property tax rates. |
| Amenities | Properties with additional amenities (e.g. golf course, beach access) may be assessed at a higher rate. |
Tips for Minimizing Property Tax Exposure
To reduce your property tax exposure:
| Tips | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Pay taxes on time | Avoid late payments and penalties by paying your taxes on time. |
| 2. Review your property records | |
| 3. Improvise and adjust | Be prepared to make adjustments to your property records or assessments as circumstances change. |
| 4. Research local tax laws | Stay informed about local tax laws and regulations that may impact your property tax exposure. |
Frequently Asked Questions:
Here is an FAQ content section about Oahu property tax changes in 2025:
Q: What are the changes to Oahu property taxes in 2025?
A: In 2025, the City and County of Honolulu has implemented changes to the property tax system on the island of Oahu. These changes aim to provide relief to homeowners and reform the tax system to be more fair and equitable.
Q: What is the new property tax rate structure?
A: Starting in 2025, Oahu’s property tax rate structure has been revised to include five new tiers, with lower rates for residential properties and higher rates for commercial and industrial properties. The new tiers are as follows:
* Tier 1: Residential properties valued up to $1 million (rate: 0.70%)
* Tier 2: Residential properties valued between $1 million and $2 million (rate: 0.80%)
* Tier 3: Residential properties valued between $2 million and $3 million (rate: 0.90%)
* Tier 4: Commercial and industrial properties (rate: 1.20%)
* Tier 5: Vacant and agricultural properties (rate: 1.40%)
Q: How will the new tier system affect my property tax bill?
A: If you own a residential property on Oahu, you can expect to see a decrease in your property tax bill. The exact impact will depend on the value of your property and which tier it falls under. Commercial and industrial property owners, on the other hand, may see an increase in their property tax bill.
Q: What is the annual exemption for owner-occupants?
A: As of 2025, owner-occupants of residential properties on Oahu are eligible for an annual exemption of $100,000. This means that the first $100,000 of your property’s value is exempt from taxation.
Q: How do I apply for the owner-occupant exemption?
A: To apply for the owner-occupant exemption, you must file a claim with the City and County of Honolulu’s Real Property Assessment Division by December 31, 2025. You can download the application form from the city’s website or pick one up in person at the Real Property Assessment Division office.
Q: What if I have questions or concerns about the new property tax changes?
A: If you have questions or concerns about the new property tax changes, you can contact the City and County of Honolulu’s Real Property Assessment Division at (808) 768-3980 or email [rpa@honolulu.gov](mailto:rpa@honolulu.gov). You can also attend one of the city’s public information sessions, which will be held throughout the year.
Resources & Links
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Oahu Tax Authority
Real Estate Site – Oahu Updates
Local News – Property Tax Proposals
Civic Organization – Tax Reform Advocacy
Financial Advisor – Tax Impact
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For Buyers & Sellers
**Personal Summary: How Oahu Property Tax Changes in 2025 Impact Home Buyers and Sellers**
As a homeowner or potential home buyer on the island of Oahu, it’s essential to stay informed about the upcoming changes to property taxes in 2025. These changes can significantly impact your financial decisions and overall quality of life. Here’s a personal summary of how the Oahu property tax changes in 2025 may affect you:
**For Home Buyers:**
1. **Increased tax burden**: The 2025 property tax changes may lead to higher taxes on newly purchased homes, which could increase your monthly mortgage payments and overall cost of homeownership.
2. **Shift in affordability**: With rising property taxes, some neighborhoods that were previously affordable may become less attainable for first-time home buyers or those on a tight budget.
3. **Considerations for long-term planning**: As a home buyer, you’ll need to factor in the potential long-term impact of these tax changes on your financial situation and ability to maintain your home.
**For Home Sellers:**
1. **Potential decrease in property values**: The increased tax burden may lead to a decrease in property values, potentially affecting the sale price of your home.
2. **More competition in the market**: If property taxes rise, some homeowners may be forced to sell their homes, increasing competition in the market and potentially reducing sale prices.
3. **Renegotiation of sale terms**: Buyers may request concessions or renegotiate sale terms to account for the increased tax burden, which could impact your sale price or overall profit.
**Common Considerations for Both Buyers and Sellers:**
1. **Stay informed and adaptable**: Stay up-to-date on the property tax changes and be prepared to adjust your financial plans and expectations accordingly.
2. **Consult with a real estate expert**: Work with a knowledgeable real estate agent who understands the local market and can help you navigate the implications of these changes.
3. **Weigh the pros and cons**: Consider the benefits and drawbacks of buying or selling a home in Oahu in 2025, taking into account the property tax changes and their impact on your financial situation.
New Listings & Properties for Sale in Oahu property tax changes in 2025
Honolulu Property Tax – Fiscal 2024-2025
Home Exemption – Tax Relief and Forms
File Your Oahu Homeowner Exemption by September 30 …
Photos of Oahu property tax changes in 2025




