What You’ll Pay in Property Taxes in Lakewood

In Lakewood, Colorado, the typical property tax rate hovers around 0.8% annually. While rates can vary based on the specific property and neighborhood, most homeowners in similar suburban cities pay between 0.6%–1.2% of their assessed home value each year in property taxes.

For a home valued at $450,000, which is close to the Lakewood median as of 2025, an annual property tax rate of 0.8% would translate to about $3,600 per year or $300 per month. Keep in mind that as your home value rises, so will your property tax responsibility, even if the rate itself remains steady.

It’s important to note that Colorado property tax rates tend to be lower than the national average. However, with home prices in Lakewood continuing to climb, the actual dollar amount paid can still be substantial. Smart homeowners budget for property taxes as part of their regular monthly expenses to avoid surprises.

How HOA Fees Work in Lakewood

In addition to property taxes, many Lakewood neighborhoods have Homeowners Associations (HOAs) that collect monthly fees. These fees help maintain shared spaces and amenities. In Lakewood, common HOA fees often cover:

• Trash and recycling services
• Landscaping and snow removal in common areas
• Community pool, fitness center, or clubhouse upkeep
• Exterior maintenance and repairs for condos or townhomes
• Irrigation or xeriscaping services for drought-friendly lawns

The specifics of what your HOA covers will vary based on your neighborhood and property type. Condos and townhomes typically have higher monthly fees since the HOA is responsible for more exterior maintenance. Single-family neighborhoods often have lower fees but fewer included services.

Before buying into an HOA neighborhood, be sure to carefully review what the fees include and how often they can increase. [Hidden Fees to Watch Out for When Living in Lakewood](/lakewood-co/local-hidden-fees/) can add up quickly if you’re not prepared.

Typical Monthly HOA Costs

In Lakewood, HOA fees often range from $100 to over $300 per month. Luxury developments with extensive amenities like golf courses or on-site staff will fall on the higher end, while more modest neighborhoods may charge under $150 monthly.

Here’s a quick comparison of what you might pay for various property types and amenity levels:

Neighborhood Type	Typical Monthly HOA Fee
Compact or low-amenity neighborhood	$75 – $125
Average suburban development	$150 – $225
Luxury, amenity-rich community	$250 – $400+
Example: $295k home with 0.8% tax + $150 HOA	~$345 per month 🏆

For the typical Lakewood homeowner, budgeting around $200 per month for HOA fees is a good starting point. However, it’s crucial to look at the specific neighborhood and home type you’re considering. [Housing Costs in Lakewood by Type](/lakewood-co/housing-breakdown/) can give you a more detailed breakdown.

Hidden or Seasonal Fees to Expect

Beyond monthly HOA dues, Lakewood homeowners should prepare for a few other potential fees:

• Annual property tax increases if home values rise
• Special assessments for major HOA repairs or upgrades
• Pet rent or deposits if you have dogs, cats, etc.
• Parking permits for guests or additional vehicles
• Bulk trash removal or recycling surcharges
• Seasonal irrigation or xeriscaping charges to maintain lawns

While not all of these will apply in every situation, it’s wise to have some cushion in your budget for incidentals. Asking neighbors what extra fees they’ve encountered and reading your HOA’s fine print can help you prepare.

Are These Costs Worth It?

After tallying up property taxes, HOA fees, and other expenses, you may be wondering if it’s all worth it. While only you can decide what’s right for your budget and lifestyle, there are some compelling reasons many Lakewood residents find value in these costs:

On the plus side, HOAs often provide amenities and services that make daily life more enjoyable and less stressful. Things like snow removal, lawn care, and access to pools or fitness centers can save you time and money compared to going it alone. Proactive maintenance and rule enforcement by the HOA also tend to keep property values higher in the long run.

However, there are trade-offs to consider. HOA rules can feel restrictive, and rising fees can strain your budget, especially for luxury amenities you may not use often. Disagreements with neighbors or the HOA board can also become very stressful.

Ultimately, many Lakewood homeowners find the benefits outweigh the costs, especially if they buy in a neighborhood that fits their needs and budget. Lakewood HOA homes often retain higher resale value than similar non-HOA properties.

FAQs About Property Tax and HOA in Lakewood

How much is the average HOA fee in Lakewood?
Typical HOA fees in Lakewood range from $100 to $300+ per month, with most falling around $150-$250. Luxury communities can charge $400 or more.

Can my HOA fees increase?

Yes, HOA fees can increase over time, usually with a vote from the board or members. Fees may rise due to inflation, rising maintenance costs, or new amenities. Reading your HOA bylaws carefully can help you anticipate potential increases.

Do I pay both property tax and HOA fees?
Yes, property taxes and HOA fees are separate expenses. Property taxes go to the city and county, while HOA fees pay for neighborhood-specific services provided by the Homeowners Association. You’ll pay both monthly or annually as a homeowner.

Are property taxes higher in Lakewood than other parts of Colorado?
Property taxes in Lakewood are assessed at the county level by Jefferson County. The rates are comparable to other Denver metro area counties but may be higher than some rural parts of Colorado. Lakewood’s effective property tax rate of around 0.8% is close to the state average.

Final Cost Insights for Lakewood Homeowners

Owning a home in Lakewood comes with substantial monthly costs, but most residents find the trade-offs worthwhile. With property taxes averaging 0.8% and typical HOA fees ranging from $150-$250, homeowners can expect to pay a few hundred dollars per month on top of their mortgage.

While these costs can add up, Lakewood homeowners often benefit from robust amenities, proactive maintenance, and stable property values over time. The key is choosing a home and neighborhood that fits your long-term budget and offers the lifestyle you want.

As you plan for homeownership in Lakewood, be sure to:

• Carefully review HOA fees, rules, and services
• Budget for monthly, annual, and special assessment costs
• Consider the long-term value and equity potential
• Compare total monthly costs to renting in your desired area

With foresight and planning, you can find the right balance of costs and benefits to make Lakewood homeownership a rewarding investment and experience. To see how Lakewood compares, you can also explore typical property taxes and HOA fees for nearby cities like Denver, Arvada, and Golden.