Property Taxes in North Carolina: Rates, Exemptions, and How They Work (2026)
TL;DR
North Carolina property taxes are assessed at 100% of market value, with an average effective rate of about 0.73%. Counties revalue property every 4-8 years (the state requires at least every 8 years). The Homestead Exclusion for seniors and disabled homeowners excludes the greater of $25,000 or 50% of assessed value. Appeal within 30 days of the revaluation notice to the county Board of Equalization and Review. Between revaluations, values typically remain stable unless you make improvements.
Assessment and Revaluation
North Carolina assesses property at 100% of fair market value. Counties must revalue all property at least every 8 years, though many do so more frequently (every 4-6 years). Between revaluations, your assessed value stays the same unless there is new construction, an addition, or a change in use.
County tax assessors conduct the revaluation using mass appraisal techniques, looking at sales data, property characteristics, and market trends across the county.
Exemptions
| Exemption | Benefit | Who Qualifies |
|---|---|---|
| Homestead Exclusion | Greater of $25,000 or 50% of assessed value | 65+ or totally disabled, income under $36,700 |
| Circuit Breaker Tax Deferment | Defers taxes above a percentage of income | 65+ or disabled, income under $36,700 |
| Disabled Veteran Exclusion | $45,000 off assessed value | 100% disabled veterans |
| Present-Use Value | Farmland, forestland assessed at agricultural use value | Qualifying agricultural/forest land |
Tax Rates
Tax rates are set by each county and municipality. County rates typically range from $0.40-$1.00 per $100 of assessed value. Municipal rates add another $0.20-$0.70. Combined rates usually total $0.80-$1.50 per $100.
Appeal Process
- Informal appeal: Contact the county assessor's office during the revaluation period
- Board of Equalization and Review: File a formal appeal during the board's sitting period (usually 30 days in the spring of revaluation years)
- Property Tax Commission: Appeal the board's decision within 30 days
Payment
Taxes are due September 1, with most counties allowing payment through January 5 without penalty. After January 5, a 2% interest charge applies, increasing monthly.
Check your assessment with our free property tax analyzer, especially in revaluation years when values change and appeal deadlines are active.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I know about property taxes in north carolina: rates, exemptions, and how they work (2026)?
North Carolina property taxes are assessed at 100% of market value, with an average effective rate of about 0.73%. Counties revalue property every 4-8 years (the state requires at least every 8 years). The Homestead Exclusion for seniors and disabled homeowners excludes the greater of $25,000 or 50% of assessed value.
What should I know about assessment and revaluation?
North Carolina assesses property at 100% of fair market value. Counties must revalue all property at least every 8 years, though many do so more frequently (every 4-6 years). Between revaluations, your assessed value stays the same unless there is new construction, an addition, or a change in use.
What should I know about tax rates?
Tax rates are set by each county and municipality. County rates typically range from $0.40-$1.00 per $100 of assessed value. Municipal rates add another $0.20-$0.70.
What should I know about payment?
Taxes are due September 1, with most counties allowing payment through January 5 without penalty. After January 5, a 2% interest charge applies, increasing monthly.