Property Taxes in Rhode Island: Rates, Exemptions, and How They Work (2026)
TL;DR
Rhode Island property taxes are assessed at 100% of fair market value with revaluation every 9 years and statistical updates at the midpoint. The average effective rate is about 1.30%. Each municipality sets its own tax rate and exemptions. Rhode Island also taxes motor vehicles as personal property (being phased out). The homestead exemption and senior freeze vary by municipality. Appeal through the local tax assessor, then to the local Board of Tax Assessment Review within 90 days.
Assessment
Each municipality conducts a full revaluation every 9 years with a statistical update at the midpoint (4.5 years). Property is assessed at 100% of fair market value as of December 31 of the prior year.
Exemptions
Rhode Island exemptions are set locally by each municipality:
| Program | Benefit | Who Qualifies |
|---|---|---|
| Homestead Exemption | Varies by municipality | Owner-occupied, varies |
| Senior Freeze | Freezes assessment (local option) | 65+, varies by town |
| Veterans | $1,000-$10,000 off value (varies by town) | Qualifying veterans |
| Disabled Veterans | Partial to full exemption | Service-connected disability |
| Blind | $5,000+ off value | Legally blind |
Motor Vehicle Tax Phase-Out
Rhode Island has been phasing out the motor vehicle excise tax, with annual exemption amounts increasing. Contact your municipality for the current exemption level.
Appeal
- Tax assessor: File abatement request
- Board of Tax Assessment Review: File within 90 days of tax payment
- Superior Court: Appeal within 30 days
Check your Rhode Island assessment with our free property tax analyzer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I know about property taxes in rhode island: rates, exemptions, and how they work (2026)?
Rhode Island property taxes are assessed at 100% of fair market value with revaluation every 9 years and statistical updates at the midpoint. The average effective rate is about 1.30%. Each municipality sets its own tax rate and exemptions.
What should I know about assessment?
Each municipality conducts a full revaluation every 9 years with a statistical update at the midpoint (4.5 years). Property is assessed at 100% of fair market value as of December 31 of the prior year.
What should I know about exemptions?
Rhode Island exemptions are set locally by each municipality:
What should I know about motor vehicle tax phase-out?
Rhode Island has been phasing out the motor vehicle excise tax, with annual exemption amounts increasing. Contact your municipality for the current exemption level.
What should I know about appeal?
Check your Rhode Island assessment with our free property tax analyzer.