Property Taxes in South Carolina: Rates, Exemptions, and How They Work (2026)
TL;DR
South Carolina assesses owner-occupied homes at just 4% of market value, one of the lowest assessment ratios in the country. Non-owner-occupied property is assessed at 6%. Reassessment happens every 5 years, with the assessment capped at 15% increase over any 5-year period for owner-occupied homes (unless a sale triggers reassessment to market value). The average effective rate is about 0.53%. Appeal within 90 days of the assessment notice to the county assessor, then the county Board of Assessment Appeals.
Assessment Ratios
| Property Type | Assessment Ratio |
|---|---|
| Owner-occupied residential | 4% |
| Other residential, commercial | 6% |
| Agricultural (private) | 4% |
| Manufacturing | 10.5% |
| Utility | 10.5% |
On a $300,000 home, the assessed value is just $12,000 (4%). With a typical mill rate of 250-350, the annual tax would be $3,000-$4,200.
15% Cap
For owner-occupied properties, the assessed value cannot increase by more than 15% over any reassessment cycle (5 years). The cap resets when the property is sold, at which point it is reassessed at the sale price.
Exemptions
| Exemption | Benefit | Who Qualifies |
|---|---|---|
| Homestead Exemption | First $50,000 of market value exempt from school operating taxes | Owner-occupied, SC legal resident |
| Senior/Disabled | Additional exemption from school taxes on first $50,000 | 65+ or disabled, varies by county |
| Disabled Veterans | Full exemption for permanently disabled | Service-connected permanent total disability |
Appeal
- File objection with county assessor within 90 days of notice
- County Board of Assessment Appeals hearing
- Administrative Law Court appeal within 30 days
Check your assessment with our free property tax analyzer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I know about property taxes in south carolina: rates, exemptions, and how they work (2026)?
South Carolina assesses owner-occupied homes at just 4% of market value, one of the lowest assessment ratios in the country. Non-owner-occupied property is assessed at 6%. Reassessment happens every 5 years, with the assessment capped at 15% increase over any 5-year period for owner-occupied homes (unless a sale triggers reassessment to market value).
What should I know about assessment ratios?
On a $300,000 home, the assessed value is just $12,000 (4%). With a typical mill rate of 250-350, the annual tax would be $3,000-$4,200.
What should I know about 15% cap?
For owner-occupied properties, the assessed value cannot increase by more than 15% over any reassessment cycle (5 years). The cap resets when the property is sold, at which point it is reassessed at the sale price.
What should I know about appeal?
Check your assessment with our free property tax analyzer.