Joseph Taylor
Harris County property owners may face one of the biggest tax changes in years. Property tax increase - is becoming a major concern for homeowners as county commissioners move forward with a higher property tax rate.
Biggest Tax Hike
Harris County commissioners on Tuesday voted 3-2 to advance considering a significant increase in its property tax rate.
- Proposed property tax rate of up to $0.41750 per $100 of taxable value.
- Combined tax rate levy to about 67 cents per $100 of appraised value, compared with around 62 cents previously.
That would be the highest combined rate since at least 2006, and one of the largest increases around 7.6% in the county's history.
Key Numbers
| Particular | Details |
| Proposed increase | About 7.6% |
| Previous combined levy | About 62 cents per $100 |
| Proposed combined levy | About 67 cents per $100 |
| Budget shortfall | More than $180 million |
| Expected to cost the average homeowner | Between $190–$198 more annually |
| Final vote | September 17, 2026 |
| Budget deadline | October 1, 2026 |
Final Vote Coming
The increase isn't final yet.
- A public hearing and final vote are scheduled for September 17, 2026.
- Commissioners could still lower the rate before then, but a final decision must come before the new fiscal year starts October 1.
Why Is the Increase Happening?
County Offical says its expenses have been higher than its revenue for four consecutive years. To help close the gap, the county has also sold off underused properties and raised certain fees.
Homeowners should watch the September 17, 2026, final vote and review their property tax information to understand how the change could affect them.
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