What You’ll Pay in Property Taxes in Bellevue
In 2025, the average property tax rate in Bellevue is around 0.9%. Property taxes in Bellevue are generally in line with the state average, typically falling between 0.8%–1.2% annually. For a home valued at $800,000, that translates to an annual property tax bill of approximately $7,200 or $600 per month.
It’s important to note that property tax rates can vary depending on the specific location and assessed value of your home. Bellevue’s property taxes help fund essential services like schools, public safety, parks, and infrastructure maintenance. While the rates may seem high, they contribute to the high quality of life and excellent amenities that Bellevue residents enjoy.
When budgeting for homeownership in Bellevue, be sure to factor in property taxes alongside your mortgage payment and other monthly expenses. Keep in mind that property tax rates can change from year to year based on local budgets and assessments, so it’s wise to plan for potential increases over time.
How HOA Fees Work in Bellevue
In addition to property taxes, many Bellevue homeowners also pay monthly Homeowners Association (HOA) fees. These fees cover the costs of maintaining and enhancing common areas and amenities within a community. HOA fees can vary widely depending on the neighborhood and the services provided.
In Bellevue, HOA fees often include:
- Landscaping and lawn care for common areas
- Maintenance of community pools, parks, and playgrounds
- Clubhouse or fitness center access and upkeep
- Trash collection and recycling services
- Exterior building maintenance and repairs
- Security or neighborhood patrol services
Some Bellevue HOAs also include additional perks like community events, sports courts, walking trails, or even irrigation and xeriscaping services to help minimize water usage. When shopping for a home in Bellevue, be sure to carefully review the HOA agreement to understand what services are covered and any rules or restrictions that come with membership.
Typical Monthly HOA Costs
HOA fees in Bellevue typically range from $200 to $500 per month, but can be higher for luxury developments with extensive amenities. Here’s a quick comparison of what you might expect to pay in different types of Bellevue communities:
| Neighborhood Type | Typical Monthly HOA Fee |
|---|---|
| Modest townhome community | $200 – $300 |
| Average suburban single-family | $300 – $450 |
| Luxury golf course or waterfront | $450 – $800+ |
| Example: $750K home with 0.9% tax + $350 HOA | $910/month |
For most Bellevue homeowners, HOA fees will add a few hundred dollars to their monthly housing costs. However, the amenities and services provided can offer significant value and help protect property values over time. Neighborhoods with fewer amenities tend to have lower HOA fees, often in the $200 – $350 per month range.
Hidden or Seasonal Fees to Expect
Beyond monthly property taxes and HOA dues, Bellevue homeowners should be aware of a few [potential hidden fees](/bellevue-wa/local-hidden-fees/) that can impact their budget:
- Special assessments – HOAs may charge extra fees for major repairs or improvement projects, often divided among all homeowners in the community.
- Irrigation surcharges – Some Bellevue neighborhoods tack on seasonal fees for watering common area landscaping, which can add $20-$50 per month during the summer.
- Permitting fees – If you plan to renovate your home or build an addition, be prepared to pay for permits from the city.
- Utility fees – While some HOA fees include utilities like water and trash, others leave homeowners to pay these bills separately.
The best way to avoid surprises is to thoroughly review your HOA agreement and ask about any additional fees before making an offer on a Bellevue home. Your real estate agent can also help you understand all the costs of homeownership for the specific property and community you’re considering.
Are These Costs Worth It?
For many Bellevue homeowners, the benefits of living in a well-maintained HOA community outweigh the monthly costs. HOAs help protect property values by enforcing standards for home exteriors, landscaping, and public spaces. This can be especially valuable in neighborhoods with shared amenities like pools, parks, and fitness centers that are costly to maintain.
Of course, HOA living also comes with some tradeoffs. Homeowners may have less flexibility when it comes to exterior paint colors, landscaping choices, or parking regulations. Some HOAs can be quite strict in enforcing community rules and standards. It’s important to understand the specific guidelines and restrictions before buying into an HOA neighborhood.
Overall, most Bellevue homeowners find that the pros of HOA living outweigh the cons. Well-managed HOAs help create attractive, cohesive neighborhoods with great amenities and a strong sense of community. In Bellevue, homes in HOA communities often retain higher resale value compared to non-HOA properties, especially in highly desirable neighborhoods with great schools and convenient locations.
FAQs About Property Tax and HOA in Bellevue
How much is the average HOA fee in Bellevue?
HOA fees in Bellevue average between $300 – $450 per month, but can range from $200 for basic townhomes up to $800+ for luxury single-family communities.
Can my HOA fees increase over time?
Yes, HOA fees can increase from year to year to keep up with inflation, rising maintenance costs, or community improvement projects. Review your HOA’s financial history to see how fees have trended over time.
Do I have to pay both property taxes and HOA fees?
Yes, property taxes and HOA fees are separate expenses. Property taxes fund public services provided by the city and county, while HOA fees pay for amenities and maintenance within your specific community.
How do Bellevue’s property taxes compare to other cities?
Bellevue’s 0.9% average property tax rate is slightly lower than Seattle’s 1.01% rate and roughly on par with many other suburban cities in the Puget Sound region. However, Bellevue’s high home values mean the typical tax bill is substantial.
Is an HOA worth the cost for first-time homebuyers?
It depends on your budget and lifestyle preferences. HOA neighborhoods often provide great amenities and a strong sense of community, but the fees can be a strain for first-time buyers already stretching to afford a home. Consider your monthly budget holistically and weigh the value of HOA perks against the long-term costs.
Final Cost Insights for Bellevue Homeowners
Buying a home in Bellevue means budgeting for both property taxes and HOA fees in addition to your mortgage payment. While the typical 0.9% property tax rate and $300 – $450 monthly HOA dues may seem hefty, they help provide the high quality of life, great schools, and world-class amenities that make Bellevue one of the most desirable places to live in Washington.
All together, a typical Bellevue homeowner might expect to pay around $900 – $1,200 per month for their property taxes and HOA fees combined. That’s a significant chunk of the monthly budget, but for many, the tradeoff is worth it for the lifestyle and community that Bellevue offers. Of course, costs can vary widely depending on your specific home and neighborhood, so it’s important to [crunch the numbers carefully](/bellevue-wa/housing-breakdown/) before making an offer.
The best way to prepare for Bellevue homeownership costs is to work with an experienced local real estate agent who can walk you through the tax implications and HOA considerations for different properties and neighborhoods. With careful planning and budgeting, you can find the right Bellevue home to fit your family’s needs and financial goals. The long-term rewards of living in this vibrant, welcoming city are well worth the investment for those who can comfortably afford the monthly costs.