Property taxes are one of the most misunderstood costs of homeownership — and in Everett, they represent a significant chunk of your monthly housing expense. This page breaks down exactly how Everett property taxes work, what you’ll pay at different home values, how Everett compares to other cities, and how to appeal your assessment if it’s wrong.
How Everett Property Taxes Are Calculated
Your property tax bill is determined by two factors: your home’s assessed value (set by the Snohomish County Assessor) and the mill rate (set by the combination of state, county, city, school district, and special taxing districts).
The formula: Assessed Value × Mill Rate = Annual Tax Bill
Everett’s effective property tax rate is approximately 1% of assessed value, though the exact rate varies by specific location within the city depending on which taxing districts you fall in.
Tax amounts vary significantly by neighborhood based on assessed values. Higher-value areas like Boulevard Bluffs pay substantially more than entry-level areas like Downtown.
Tax Bill Examples at Different Home Values
| Assessed Value | Est. Annual Tax | Est. Monthly (in escrow) |
|---|---|---|
| $400,000 (Downtown condo) | ~$4,000 | ~$333 |
| $500,000 | ~$5,000 | ~$417 |
| $600,000 (citywide median) | ~$6,000 | ~$500 |
| $700,000 | ~$7,000 | ~$583 |
| $900,000 (Boulevard Bluffs) | ~$9,000 | ~$750 |
Remember: assessed value is NOT the same as market value. Assessed values in Snohomish County typically run 5–15% below actual market value.
Property taxes are a major factor in the sell vs. hold decision — they represent ongoing costs that eat into your equity gains.
How Everett Compares to Nearby Cities
| City | Approx. Effective Tax Rate | Tax on $600K Home |
|---|---|---|
| Everett | ~1.0% | ~$6,000 |
| Seattle | ~0.9–1.0% | ~$5,400–$6,000 |
| Bellevue | ~0.8–0.9% | ~$4,800–$5,400 |
| Tacoma | ~1.2–1.4% | ~$7,200–$8,400 |
| Kent | ~1.1–1.2% | ~$6,600–$7,200 |
Everett’s property tax rate is roughly in line with Seattle and lower than Tacoma and south King County cities.
Recent Tax Rate Trends
Washington state caps the annual increase in property tax levies at 1% (plus new construction). However, voter-approved levies (school bonds, fire district measures, transit levies) can increase your bill beyond that cap. Watch for Sound Transit expansion levies as the Link Light Rail extension to Everett progresses.
If you’re planning to sell, property taxes are prorated at closing. See our complete selling guide for all closing cost details.
Property Tax Exemptions Available
Senior Citizens / Disabled Persons Exemption: If you’re 61+ or disabled and meet income thresholds (currently under ~$58,000 household income for the full exemption), you can qualify for reduced property taxes.
Disabled Veteran Exemption: Veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 80%+ may qualify for property tax exemptions.
Property Tax Deferral: Homeowners 60+ or disabled who meet income requirements can defer property taxes until the home is sold.
Apply through the Snohomish County Assessor’s office.
Visit the Snohomish County Assessor’s office for assessment appeal forms and deadlines.
How to Appeal Your Property Tax Assessment
When to appeal: If your assessed value is higher than what comparable homes in your neighborhood have actually sold for recently.
- Look up your assessed value on the Snohomish County Assessor website
- Compare to recent comparable sales (use our neighborhood pricing data)
- File a petition with the Snohomish County Board of Equalization
- Deadline: typically 60 days after the assessment notice is mailed (usually July)
- Provide evidence: comparable sales, photos of condition issues, an independent appraisal
How Taxes Factor Into Your Monthly Mortgage Payment
Most mortgage lenders require property taxes to be paid through an escrow account. On a $600K home, property taxes add roughly $500/month to your payment.
Want to Understand the Full Cost of Owning in Everett?
Property taxes are one piece. Talk to a local expert who can help you understand taxes, insurance, maintenance, and the total cost of ownership in your specific neighborhood.