Staten Island Property Tax Rate: Everything You Need to Know in 2025

What is Staten Island Property Tax Rate?

1. Current Tax Rates Overview

The Staten Island property tax rate is the highest among all five boroughs of New York City. According to a 2017 analysis, Staten Island had a borough-wide median effective property tax rate of 1.12%, which is higher than the citywide median of 0.95%. The South Shore of Staten Island had the highest rate of any community district citywide at 1.15%, followed by the North Shore at 1.11% and Mid-Island at 1.10%.

More recent data from 2025 shows that Staten Island’s median effective property tax rate is 0.85%, which is lower than the national median of 0.99% but also lower than the New York state median of 2.39%. 

Those numbers paint a pretty stark and steady picture of the disparity in tax rates. They represent the unique local housing and economic conditions that shape each locality. The overall property tax rate has been frozen at 12.283 percent since de Blasio took office.

This number is just a blended average over a complex system of four classes, further emphasizing the tax-strapping reality unique to Staten Island.

2. Comparison with Other NYC Areas

When we look at Staten Island's property tax rates compared to other areas in New York City, the differences become quite evident. Unlike Manhattan or Brooklyn, where property values are sky-high, Staten Islanders are faced with a much higher effective tax rate.

For example, the community district where Mayor Bill de Blasio pays property taxes has the lowest rate in all five boroughs at 0.26%.

This is largely due to the borough's unique property assessment system. The typical Staten Island homeowner ends up paying more in property taxes, which can be a significant factor for those considering purchasing or investing in the area.

The tentative worth for this tax year on the island is nearly $3.7 million combined, a rise from over $3.2 million the previous year, according to city assessment records. This increase reflects not just rising property values, but the growing tax burden on residents.

3. Factors Influencing Staten Island Tax Rates

Several elements contribute to why Staten Island's property tax rates are so notably high. One major factor is the borough’s classification system, which affects how properties are assessed and taxed.

Unlike areas with more commercial properties, Staten Island's largely residential makeup means that homeowners shoulder a greater share of the tax burden. Factors such as local government spending, public service needs, and infrastructure development projects can influence these rates.

The island's unique geographic and economic landscape adds layers of complexity, impacting how these tax rates are determined and adjusted over time. Understanding these factors is crucial for both current residents and potential buyers, as they directly affect housing costs and overall affordability in the area.

If you’re considering moving to Staten Island, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons, including property taxes. Read more in our article, Moving to Staten Island: Pros and Cons.

How Are Property Taxes Assessed in New York?

Assessment Process Explained

Property taxes in New York, including Staten Island, follow a structured assessment process. This process begins with the local tax assessor, who evaluates properties based on their market value. The assessors use a combination of field inspections and data analysis to determine a property's worth, taking into account local taxes and the effective tax rates in the area.

They consider the physical characteristics of a property, like its size, location, and the condition of any structures on it. For instance, a well-maintained home on a quiet street might receive a higher valuation compared to a similar property in need of repair on a busier road, especially when factoring in the median property tax rate.

Assessors also compare similar properties in the area to gauge a fair market value. This comparison ensures that the assessments remain consistent within neighborhoods, which is crucial for maintaining fairness in local property taxes. The frequency of these assessments can vary, but they often occur annually or bi-annually, depending on local regulations.

By maintaining a regular assessment schedule, tax authorities can adjust property values to reflect changes in the real estate market and neighborhood development trends. This method keeps property tax assessments current and fair.

Calculation Methods Used

Once the market value is established, the calculation of property taxes involves several steps. New York uses a percentage of the property's market value, known as the assessment ratio, to determine its assessed value.

For example, if a home has a market value of $500,000 and the assessment ratio is 20%, the assessed value would be $100,000. This assessed value is then multiplied by the local tax rate to calculate the annual property tax due.

Local tax rates, also referred to as millage rates, are expressed in dollars per $1,000 of assessed value. If the millage rate in a particular area is $25 for every $1,000 of assessed value, a property with an assessed value of $100,000 would owe $2,500 in property taxes.

This straightforward calculation method ensures clarity and consistency in the tax billing process. Certain exemptions may apply to reduce the taxable amount, such as those for veterans or senior citizens, which further modifies the final tax bill.

Influential Factors in Assessment

Several factors influence property assessments in New York. Economic conditions, such as inflation and interest rates, can impact real estate values and, consequently, property taxes. For instance, a booming local economy might lead to increased property values, while an economic downturn could have the opposite effect.

Neighborhood dynamics, such as competing development projects or changes in zoning laws, are important drivers. New infrastructure investments, whether new schools, parks, or access to high-quality public transit, make properties more desirable and valuable.

Conversely, issues such as new environmental hazards or rising crime could depress property values. Individual property improvements, such as renovations or additions, directly affect assessments.

A homeowner who adds a new garage or upgrades their kitchen might see a rise in their property's assessed value. This direct correlation between property improvements and assessments ensures that taxes align closely with the property's current market state.

Impact of Property Taxes on Staten Island

Property taxes have an outsized effect on Staten Island’s fiscal realities, especially regarding local taxes that fund essential services and support various programs, ultimately influencing the broader New York area.

Local Services Funding

Staten Island property taxes are the single-most important factor in providing quality of life services to residents. Beyond this immediate issue, property taxes are the primary source of funding for public schools, emergency services, and other important infrastructure projects. Residents depend on these services to ensure their health and safety on a daily basis, thus property taxes become the bedrock of a community’s well-being.

The money we bring in makes a big difference, providing the financial support our schools need. They make sure we can attract, hire and keep qualified teachers and create safe, modern learning facilities. These emergency taxes fund police and fire departments that protect our communities by ensuring fast, reliable responses to emergencies.

Despite those benefits, Staten Islanders homeowners with property tax burdens often struggle. Historically, Staten Islanders have paid a higher percentage of their property values than residents of other boroughs of New York City. This penalizing burden is equivalent to a second mortgage, or worse, leaving overleveraged homeowners in a lurch.

The tax rate does not correlate at all with the property value, putting many residents in a bind. In response, they are reconsidering where they live.

Programs Supported by Taxes

In addition to basic services, property taxes support larger programs that keep Staten Island clean, attractive, and healthy. These have included parks and recreation projects, public health initiatives, and cultural programs that continue to make the island’s quality of life vibrant. Such programs provide residents with unique opportunities to immerse themselves within the fabric of community life, fostering health, wellness and cultural appreciation.

However, this same system is hurting many of the Island’s homeowners today. Richmond County’s median property tax rate for full-pay homeowners is 0.85%, which is lower than the national average of 0.99%. Yet homeowners continue to pay the price from the soft underbelly of real estate taxes—the overvaluation of homes.

Residents are hungrily taxed at a higher rate than the rest of the city, which can erode their purchasing power and make home ownership as an American dream a difficult reality to achieve. This inequity highlights the need for reform to ensure fairness and transparency, providing much-needed relief for middle and working-class families in the tax district.

Broader Impact on New York Area

It is important to acknowledge that the property tax system on Staten Island does not exist in a vacuum. Its impact extends beyond the borough itself to the New York metro area at large, undermining regional real estate markets and economic stability.

In short, high taxes scare away the very buyers she needs to sell to, dragging down property value and overall market potential. For Staten Island homeowners, this translates to less equity and difficulties in selling their homes.

These recent initiatives and reforms aim to inject some measure of equilibrium and equity back into the property tax system. The commission’s recommendations respond directly to these disparities. If so, they would bring some much needed financial relief, increasing homeownership equity across the island and country.

Additional Tax Considerations in New York

There’s no better way to put it— the New York tax landscape is a beast to navigate. The intricacies of property and income taxation is like cracking a 500 piece Rubik’s cube. However, given the right information, you can put it all together much more seamlessly.

Income and Retirement Taxation

New York’s tax structure goes beyond property, making retirement and income burdensome. For anyone who isn’t yet retired and still in the workforce, knowing how your income will be taxed is important. New York state has a progressive income tax rate, which is when your tax rate goes up as your income increases.

This system is intended to ensure that the tax burden is equitable among families in all income brackets. Another benefit for retirees to keep in mind is that New York does not tax Social Security benefits. This tax exemption can deliver crucial relief for people who rely on Social Security as their only income.

If you have a pension from New York public sector employment, it is totally exempt from state income tax. This can be an important consideration in deciding how to plan your retirement money and make your savings last a lifetime.

Investment Income and Social Security

Investment income adds another layer to the equation. Unlike many other states, New York does not tax investment income – like capital gains – at a higher rate than other income. This includes your interest, dividends, and capital gains—which can suddenly have a large effect on your overall tax bill if you’re sitting on a lot of investments.

You can save significant money on taxes with the right strategies. One possibility is to buy municipal bonds, which are exempt from state taxes. New York is a great place to retire if you rely on Social Security benefits.

It doesn’t tax these benefits, which is a huge boon for recipients. This gives people who rely on this income almost exclusively in retirement a financial cushion.

Military Benefits and Tax Breaks

For veterans and active military members, New York provides a variety of tax exemptions. Military pay is exempt from state taxes, which is a pretty big draw for active-duty members. Veterans might be eligible for property tax exemptions, depending on their service and circumstances.

It’s definitely worth pursuing these options, as they can save you thousands and help relieve the financial stress. The state offers a wide variety of credits and deductions for veterans. These benefits reduce taxable income and help free up valuable dollars that can be spent on other critical priorities.

New York’s tax environment, with its additional layers of considerations, can be daunting. Understanding the nuances, such as the mansion tax and LLC disclosure requirements, can help you make more informed decisions.

Don’t forget, the mansion tax adds 1% on top of the above for properties over $1 million, an important consideration for large deals. Armed with this information, you will be in a better position to plan for the complexities and maximize your unique tax scenario.

Tax Exemptions and Deductions for Staten Island Homeowners

It’s easy to get lost in Staten Island’s property tax maze. Knowing what exemptions you have access to can make a big difference. Staten Island homeowners have a special double-whammy benefit. Yet they pay far less in property taxes than their fellow New Yorkers who own property in the other three boroughs. Here, we take a closer look at a few important exemptions that have real potential to impact people’s lives.

STAR (School Tax Relief) Program

The STAR Program provides much needed relief for Staten Island homeowners. The program starts with a full-value exemption of at least $10,000 in the 1999-2000 school year. It would increase incrementally to at least $30,000 by the 2001-02 school year.

This program is most advantageous to low-income seniors, who qualify automatically if they have the pre-existing senior citizen’s exemption. Eligibility limits property owners must be at least 65 years of age, with an income limit of $60,000 annually.

After you get the “basic” STAR exemption, you get to experience the best, least-well-kept secret perk. You typically do not have to reapply in subsequent years. This consistency provides homeowners with peace of mind, confident that the tax relief will roll on from year to year without further forms to fill out.

Senior Citizen and Disabled Homeowner Exemptions

For our elderly citizens and disabled homeowners, Staten Island provides great monetary relief. The Disabled Homeowners’ Exemption (DHE) assists qualifying low-income seniors and homeowners with disabilities.

It provides a real property tax reduction of 5% to 50%. This exemption can greatly ease fiscal burdens, keeping homeowners in their homes for more years. Our two-year renewal process means that only those who truly qualify continue to receive this essential help.

Low-income seniors like the exemptions greatly relieve combined with the STAR program. Together these two powerful tools make a serious dent in their annual tax burden, making a remarkable safety net for them.

Veterans’ Tax Benefits

Veterans living in Staten Island may qualify for special tax exemptions designed to recognize their service. These benefits make it easier for our veterans and their families to make ends meet and are a true testament to our community’s appreciation and honor.

Staten Island’s effective tax rate is already quite low, at 0.87%. These extra perks do a lot to benefit veterans even further, making homeownership more affordable and sustainable.

It’s a practical way of honoring their sacrifice and service by providing them with the stability they earned and rightfully deserve.

For high-value properties, the NYC mansion tax is an additional consideration. Discover The Ins and Outs of the NYC Mansion Tax to better understand its impact.

Tips to Lower Your Staten Island Property Tax Bill

When you’re living on Staten Island, the property tax bill can seem like a huge weight. There are a number of ways to relieve the burden. Now, let’s get into the nitty gritty of some useful tips to save you the most.

Appealing Your Property Assessment

When you think your property is assessed higher than its actual value, appealing might be a good step. This process involves challenging the assessment to potentially lower your tax bill.

It's like when traders use Tradingview and Pinetrader.io to analyze trends, you need solid data to support your appeal. Gather recent sale prices of similar properties in your area. If your neighbor's house is valued at $280,000 and yours at $300,000 with no apparent differences, there's room for argument.

Filing an appeal can be straightforward, but patience is key. You may hear about the results right away, or it might take a few months.

A thorough home inspection can also impact your property taxes. Find out why Staten Island Home Inspections Matter.

Applying for Available Tax Exemptions

Tax exemptions are a huge benefit if you can get one. The Senior Citizen Homeowners’ Exemption is a valuable resource for seniors in Staten Island.

To qualify, you need to be 65 years old and your income needs to be under $60,000 per year. There’s the STAR program which makes adjustments based on State equalization rates. The STAR Credit can be more advantageous in the long run, as it grows over time, unlike the fixed STAR Exemption.

Disabled homeowners can also benefit. For homeowners with disabilities, the Disabled Homeowners’ Exemption (DHE) is available and offers a 5 to 50% tax reduction. To apply, you must be an individual with a disability. Your annual income cannot be more than $58,399, and the house needs to be your main home.

For more localized information, Assembly Speaker Silver has proven to be an excellent resource, and his office can be reached via email or phone.

Investing in Energy-Efficient Home Improvements

Installing green improvements on your home will qualify you for a variety of tax breaks. Actions like installing solar panels or upgrading your insulation help you save money on your energy bills.

Furthermore, you may be eligible for state or federal tax incentives! Not only do these improvements increase the value of your home, but they make your home more marketable should you choose to sell one day.

It’s the same as buying into a really good stock, where you don’t see the return on investment right away, but it’s a great investment long term.

Filing Deadlines and Requirements for New York Taxes

Filing deadlines & requirements for New York taxes can be a daunting challenge. This information is critical to potential homeowners and investors, particularly those looking to be a part of Staten Island’s low property tax rates. Here’s what you need to know for filing deadlines and requirements in New York.

Important Dates for 2025

For anyone dealing with taxes in New York, keeping track of important dates is crucial. The fiscal year for property taxes in Staten Island runs from July 1 to June 30 of the following year. Therefore, the first important date to note is July 1, 2025, when the new fiscal year begins.

This is the date when the property assessments take effect. It's key to have all your documents ready before this date to ensure a smooth process.

An equally important date to keep in mind is January 5, 2025, when the property tax first half will be due. As long as payments are made timely, no penalty will be incurred. The second half of the property tax is due July 1, 2025.

These deadlines, while seemingly just a concern for incurring penalties for late filings, present challenges to an organization’s financial planning and cash flow.

Filing Requirements Overview

Filing your taxes in New York involves a few specific requirements that we need to address. Homeowners must ensure that their property is assessed correctly. The New York City Department of Finance provides assessment notices, usually mailed out in January.

It’s crucial to review these assessments closely because they directly influence your tax bill. Suppose you find discrepancies in your assessment. In that case, you have the option to appeal through the Tax Commission by March 1, 2025.

This appeals process is not just a formality. It can lead to significant savings if the assessed value seems too high.

The necessary papers usually consist of evidence of residency, ID, and any applicable exemption documents. For example, the School Tax Relief (STAR) program provides property tax relief to eligible homeowners.

If you plan to receive the STAR benefit, apply for it at the same time as you file your taxes. Being proactive means you’ll be positioned to make the most of any exemptions that might be available to you.

Beyond the STAR program, you might be eligible for additional exemptions. These include targeted exemptions for senior citizens and veterans.

These can be huge, bringing your tax liability down to zero or close. So make sure to regularly review the Department of Finance’s updates to make sure you’re getting the most benefit available to you.

Meeting filing deadlines is crucial when dealing with property taxes. For a step-by-step guide, check out our Closing Day Staten Island Guide.

Predictions for Property Taxes in Staten Island Beyond 2025

Moving into the future, predicting property taxes in Staten Island involves diving into several influencing factors, each with its own ripple effect on the community. Like many places, Staten Island faces challenges and opportunities with evolving property tax landscapes.

First, it's crucial to consider how economic trends shape property taxes. With the economy's ebb and flow, property values can see notable shifts. When property values rise, tax assessments tend to follow, leading to higher tax bills. This pattern, seen in many urban areas, can significantly impact homeowners who may already be juggling tight budgets.

Second, there’s the impact of local government policy. Staten Island’s local government is the key actor in determining property tax rates. Changes in policy may come from budgetary demand or a change in the overall priority. These corrections frequently lead to increases or decreases in tax rates.

For instance, if there's a push for more infrastructure development or public services, residents might see an uptick in property taxes to fund these initiatives. Striking the balance between community needs and taxpayer capacity is an ongoing, delicate dance that local elected officials must negotiate.

In addition to the monotony of time, technological advancements are another contributing factor. Tools like Tradingview and Pinetrader.io, although primarily used for financial trading, showcase how technology aids in data analysis and forecasting. These tools provide a glimpse into trends that might inform property tax predictions.

By looking at historical trends and current fiscal realities, we can make some predictions about where property taxes are headed. This kind of technology empowers all stakeholders to better inform their decisions – allowing them to remain proactive rather than reactive.

Additionally, you have to think about demographic changes. Staten Island, like other more urban areas, have been undergoing some changes in reversed population trends. Increases in demand for housing increase property values and consequently property taxes as new residents flock to the area.

If there’s an outflow, the reverse could happen. Regardless of the property tax policy, understanding these demographic trends will be crucial in making accurate property tax predictions beyond 2025.

Lastly, environmental factors come into play. With increasing awareness of climate change, properties in coastal areas like Staten Island could face higher insurance and maintenance costs, affecting property values and subsequently tax assessments.

As policies shift towards sustainability, tax incentives for eco-friendly upgrades might be introduced, influencing overall tax burdens.

Interest rates play a significant role in property tax trends. For a deeper understanding, read our article on Decoding Interest Rates.

Conclusion

Understanding property taxes on Staten Island involves more than just knowing the rate. It requires a clear picture of how these taxes impact your finances and what you can do to manage them. From exploring exemptions to leveraging deductions, every step can lighten your load. Keeping up with filing deadlines ensures you avoid penalties, while staying informed about future tax predictions helps you plan ahead. Every small action counts, like appealing an unfair assessment or applying for eligible discounts. This knowledge empowers homeowners to take control. Stay proactive and keep an eye on updates. For those ready to dive deeper, consult a tax professional to tailor strategies to your situation. Your financial health starts with informed choices.

Ready to navigate Staten Island’s property tax landscape with confidence? Whether you’re buying, selling, or just exploring your options, Robert DeFalco Realty is here to help. Our team of experienced real estate professionals can guide you through every step of the process, from understanding tax exemptions to finding your dream home.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the property tax rate in Staten Island?

Staten Island’s residential property tax rate is 21.045%. This rate is in line with New York City’s property tax system.

How are property taxes determined in New York?

In New York, property taxes are based on the assessed value of your property, which is determined by the city's Department of Finance. The tax rate is then applied to this assessed value.

How do property taxes impact Staten Island homeowners?

Staten Island property taxes may make up a big portion of the budget for homeowners. They pay for the basic building blocks of vibrant, growing communities – schools, emergency services, and infrastructure. High taxes could make it more difficult for homes to be affordable or have a sufficient resale value.

Are there any tax exemptions for Staten Island homeowners?

Homeowners on Staten Island can qualify for exemptions, such as the STAR program, which lowers school property taxes. Eligibility is based on income and property use.

How can I lower my Staten Island property tax bill?

To lower your property tax bill, ensure your property is accurately assessed. Apply for eligible exemptions and consider appealing your assessment if you believe it's incorrect.

What are the filing deadlines for New York property taxes?

In New York, property tax bills are usually sent in June. The first payment would be due by July 1st. Be sure to consult local rules for exact deadlines.

What are the future predictions for property taxes in Staten Island?

Property taxes in Staten Island will continue to increase even after 2025, driven by growing property values and demand for budgetary spending. Keep your finger on the pulse of local economic and demographic changes.