Florida homeowners could stop paying property taxes under a bold new plan
Governor Ron DeSantis wants to wipe out property taxes on primary homes, a move that could save families thousands but leave schools searching for cash.
Owning a home is the ultimate American dream, but year after year, the tax bill makes many feel like they are just renting from the government.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis just launched a major plan to change that. He wants to eliminate property taxes on most primary homes in the state.
This means if you own the home you live in, your tax bill could drop to zero. To make up for the lost money, the plan would raise the state sales tax.
Critics worry this shift will hurt renters and poor families. These groups spend a larger share of their income on everyday goods.
What the money/evidence shows
- The plan aims to cut property taxes to zero for primary residences.
- Florida would need to raise its state sales tax from 6% to cover the gap.
- Local governments rely on these taxes to fund public schools, police, and roads.
- Similar tax shifts in other states have faced major pushback from local school districts.
The Bigger Question
Who really wins when we trade property taxes for sales taxes? If wealthy homeowners pay nothing on their mansions, while low-income families pay higher taxes on groceries and clothes, we have to ask if this is truly fair.
The Other Side
Supporters of the plan argue that property taxes are unfair because you never truly own your home if the state can take it away. They say high sales taxes are fairer because people only pay when they choose to spend money. Still, critics point out that this argument ignores the fact that poor people must spend almost all their money just to survive.
What Happens Now
If this plan passes, Florida homeowners will see immediate relief on their monthly bills. However, local towns and school boards will have to fight for state funding, which could lead to cuts in local services.
What We Still Don't Know
- How much will the state sales tax have to rise to cover the loss?
- Will landlords pass any tax savings down to renters?
- How will the state make sure schools and fire stations stay funded?
Transparency notes
Published: May 27, 2026. No major post-publication update has been logged.
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Sources
External source links were not provided in this article body. Our editors reference publicly available materials and update stories as new verified information arrives.